Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1034

Wednesday May 2, 2012 Issue 1034 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

Edwards expands with First Cymru's National Express work p8

SHOW REPORT: BUS: Some of the relevant exhibitors from the CV show 2012 p36

TECHNOLOGY:

Concessions soon to A look at how Volvo outnumber fare paying utilises social media passengers in Wales p4 in its bus business p24

for recru i

JOB ADV tment EVERY WERTS EEK

Arriva open day tempered by McLeod's exit p20

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THIS WEEK

Coach & Bus Week is published by Rouncy Media, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG

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The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Rouncy Media Ltd.

Surprise, surprise

C

oncessionary pass holders may soon outnumber fare-payers on buses in Wales – according to our lead story on p4. For once, I’m not grinding my axe but it stands to reason when the largest part of your customer base consumes your product for free at the point of use – and the same time as demographics dictate that same segment is increasing. It’s something which was all too clear when the scheme was introduced 10 years ago.

What is worrying however, is the growth of the taxi culture among the second largest bus market segment – young people. As an industry we need to get a grip on it with such initiatives as family and group saver tickets.

After all, it can be cheaper to jump in a taxi when you’re in a group or as a family. But then of course, it comes at a time when bus funding is coming under pressure like never before owing in part to concessionary fares…

On a coaching note, I was most intrigued to learn about Edwards

expanding considerably in South Wales (see p8) with the takeover of First Cymru’s National Express work and the changes to its operating centres. It’s interesting to note how in recent times the operation of National Express contracts has moved away from the large operators, such as Arriva, Stagecoach and First to a host of independents – of which Edwards is a prime example. While the news will be admired in some quarters, it will also upset others, who will look on with envy as a Welsh family-run firm seeks to secure its future.

On a final note I’d like to remind you that next week’s magazine will be delivered a day later due to the May Bank Holiday. Unlike in previous years, we’re continuing our belief that it’s essential the editorial team gain their full entitlement of Bank Holidays. Anyway, I hope you enjoy your weekend.

Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

28

42

The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK

20

BMC prepares for relocation as demand outstrips production

32

A look at the law surrounding overtime, from Backhouse Jones

Arriva Bus & Coach: McLeod retires as Hodkinson takes the reins

22

Peter Hendy’s Routemaster alongside the New Bus for London

34

Accolade for NCT drivers, Hastings driving runs first half marathon

Operators disqualified over forgery of operator-licences

24

All the latest vehicle deliveries in operator’s yards across the country

36

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Gareth’s Diary!

Part two of our social media feature, with focus on Volvo Bus

CBW’s coverage of the Commercial Vehicle show 2012 from the NEC

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

News Focus Legal News

Technology

Manufacturer Big Picture Deliveries

CV Show Report

Legal Update

45

Drivers

61

Last Stop

62

People

For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:

www.coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

“We realise social media isn’t going to be for everyone but equally the next generation of coach operators are growing up with it.”

Don Johnston Volvo Bus

briefly Due to the Bank Holiday, CBW1035 will be going to press on Tuesday, May 8 instead of the usual Monday. As a result, the magazine is expected to reach you a day later.

RATP UK Chief Executive Paul Matthews left the company on April 16 following a senior management restructuring across Northern Europe, which has resulted in the removal of the UK CEO role. In a statement, RATP Dev said it was “grateful to Paul for his many contributions to the business and wishes him all the best in his future ventures.” Going forward, the UK-based MD will report directly to the firm’s Paris HQ. The O-licence for Minesh Uka trading as Hamilton Coaches/Buckbys Coaches is due to be revoked with effect from 2359hrs on May 31 2012 following a Public Inquiry held in Cambridge on March 22. According to the Notices & Proceeding for the Eastern Traffic Area dated April 20, operator Minesh Uka was found not to be of good repute, while Transport Manager Anis Patel was found to be of good repute. The firm’s vehicles are a familiar sight on the A14 in Northamptonshire, particularly at peak times.

Stagecoach has announced its South Western Trains subsidiary has signed a groundbreaking agreement with Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd. A single senior joint management team is now responsible for both train and track on the Wessex route operating out of London Waterloo with the aim of delivering a better service for passengers and a more efficient, lower-cost railway through more collaborative working, better decision-making and fully aligned incentives.

The alliance, a first for the UK rail industry, has been formally approved by the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Office of Rail Regulation (ORR).It has been set up to run until February 2017, the expiry date of the SSWT franchise and also includes a ‘taxpayer benefit’ whereby the DfT takes a share of any financial upside generated by the alliance. www.coachandbusweek.com

News4,5.indd 4

Technology p24

Welsh free bus travel ‘explosion’ Fare paying passengers move to trains and taxis, with concessions set to outnumber them Fare-paying passengers may soon be outnumbered by those benefiting from Wales’ pioneering free travel scheme, launched 10 years ago.

New statistics show a drop of almost 10% in overall bus passenger numbers in Wales in two years, despite the growing number of over-60s travelling on free passes.

The drop in fare payers contrasts with sustained growth in passengers on Welsh trains, where almost everyone pays to travel.

In April 2002, the Welsh Government pioneered unlimited free bus travel, anywhere in Wales for pensioners and disabled people.

The scheme later included men aged 60-plus, entitling people below retirement age to free commuting.

To compensate for carrying passengers for free, bus operators received £30m from the Welsh Government in 2002-03. The figure has since risen to £69m today.

The payments were based on each operator’s average single fare, and council officers were soon concerned about operators being tempted to increase single fares.

Official figures show Welsh bus fares increased 47% between 2002 and 2011.

Experts say fares are one reason

for the contrasting rail and bus trends. Others include punctuality, presentation and the range of services, especially in the evenings.

Stuart Cole, professor of transport at the University of Glamorgan, said bus operators would lose 3% of passengers for every 10% rise in fares, netting them more income overall.

“They’re putting fares up knowing they will still be better off, but from a society point of view it may not be a good outcome,” he said.

He said car owners now paid more attention to the overall costs of motoring, including wear and tear. Some commuted by train to postpone replacing their cars by two or three years.

He continued: “As bus fares have risen, many people – especially young people – have taken to using taxis. Often they’re out in a group, going to more or less the same place. Free bus journeys will continue growing because each year more people become eligible than leave the scheme.”

John Pocket, Director of Government Relations at CPT Wales, told CBW: “We’re in the second year of a threeyear agreement where the concessionary reimbursement cap has been set at £71m.

“The number of people using the free travel scheme puts reimbursement very close to this

An elderly gentleman boards a GHA Coaches Mini Pointer Dart in Wrexham on December 28, 2011

cap, showing both the popularity of the scheme and the fact the population is aging.”

John said the scheme is envied by other parts of the UK, as it is a good example of three-way cooperation, working well with the operators involved, the Welsh government and local authorities.

“Although fares have increased, operators don’t put fares up above what they have to and there are a number of rising costs which must be considered. I would like to see the source of the figures mentioned

by Stuart Cole,” he added.

The Welsh Government’s latest statistics show there were 50.2m free bus journeys in 2011-12.

All bus passenger journeys the previous year totalled 113m, down from 125m in 2008-09.

The decline in fare payers is likely to continue or accelerate this year due to large fare rises, up to 55%, which bus operators have blamed on rising costs and reducing grants.

Mr Bigwood said the large number of free journeys could partly reflect misuse of bus passes, and questioned whether bus passes were being awarded too liberally.

Eluned Parrott AM, Welsh Lib Dem Transport Spokeswoman, welcomed the increases in rail passengers and people using bus passes, but added: “It is worrying to see a sharp decline in the number of people choosing to use the bus, especially as this spiral of decline could potentially lead to a decrease in the number of bus routes.

“At a time when household incomes are under strain, the Welsh Labour Government needs to be doing all it can to ensure fare do not continue to rise.”

A Welsh Government spokesman said: “To develop a truly sustainable transport network across Wales, we have to provide a realistic and attractive alternative to the car when making every day journeys.

“For example we have invested £2.2m to improve and expand the TrawsCymru bus network so it better meets the needs of local communities. This investment has delivered a new fleet of comfortable low-floor buses.”

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Challenge 2012: IRTE puts workshop staff to the test The Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) is encouraging bus and coach engineers and mechanics to compete with their peers as part of an online test, covering three disciplines – electrical, body and mechanical – to see who’s got the best skills in the industry.

The IRTE Skills Test is an interactive way of finding out how on the ball employees are and if, in-fact, they are more clued-up than their managers in tackling the evaluation.

The test is a pre-cursor to the formal IRTE Skills Challenge which is sponsored by Bridgestone. This will see bus and coach operators put forward teams to compete in a series of engineering assessments in June. The hopefuls will compete to win one of six awards to be presented to winners and finalists during a ceremony in July 2012.

The awards are: n Top scoring mechanical Obituary

Keith Dyball Keith Dyball, Stagecoach Midlands’ highly respected and well liked Engineering Director, passed away on April 27 after a year-long battle with cancer. Keith was 64.

Keith began his career in the armed forces and spent 13 years in the army serving in Malaya and West Germany. During that time he rose from an apprentice vehicle

technician n Top scoring electrical technician n Top scoring body technician n Electrical, mechanical and body team award

At last year’s IRTE Skills Challenge, Gary Jones, from Arriva North West and Wales won the Top Scoring Body Technician award (presented

by Shell FuelSave Diesel). Gary is pictured here with SOE President Chris Grime and Giorgio Delpiano – Shell FuelSave General Manager Sales Europe West mechanic to the role of Technical Instructor. In 1977 he joined Geest Industries as Workshop Manager responsible for the firm’s HGV, van and car fleet, but left to join the bus industry as Chief Engineer of Midland Fox Limited in 1988.

In 1997 Keith joined Stagecoach as Engineering Director at Burnley and Pendle and he was then promoted to the position of Engineering Director at Stagecoach East Kent in 1999, where he spent seven successful years. Keith’s

n Mechanical & electrical combined award n Best collaboration on teamwork challenge award.

As well as an opportunity to compete with fellow workers, the online assessment also provides the opportunity to highlight gaps in knowledge which need to be addressed.

Stuart Attfield, Commercial Marketing Coordinator at Bridgestone, said: “This is a fascinating way to discover if your skill set is up to scratch. The opportunity to compete with fellow colleagues, as well as those in more senior positions may also reveal you’re streets ahead.

“However, identifying where skills gaps exist is the underlying objective of the exercise as technical knowledge, or lack of it, has an instant effect on the safety of staff and customers. A snapshot of core training needs is therefore an essential call to action for providers.”

Registration for the online test can be done at http:// tinyurl.com/d6juqzm

talent and commitment was further recognised with a move to the role of Engineering Director at Stagecoach East (now Stagecoach Midlands) in 2006.

Keith is survived by his wife Marion, daughters Donna and Michelle and four grandchildren.

Anyone wishing to attend Keith’s funeral should contact Angela Leeson at angela. leeson@stagecoachbus.com or by telephone on 01604 662265.

Diesel fuels the economy

RHA blames high price of fuel for UK recession The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has blamed the high cost of fuel for pushing the economy back into recession. After it was revealed April 25 the UK economy had declined by 0.2% in the first quarter of 2012, RHA Chief Executive Geoff Dunning said the situation could have been avoided.

“This news is not unexpected,” he said. “If the government would heed our advice and address the issue of fuel duty once and for all, this is a situation that could almost certainly have been avoided.”

Dunning said savings made on a tank of fuel would be pumped back into the economy, boosting spending and increasing trade.

He added “The barrel price of oil now stands at its lowest for quite some time. Exchange rates are also holding up well. Despite this, forecourt prices remain too high.

Tackling the issue head on is the only way to see an increase in GDP in the next quarter.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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23

news › BUSeS

The number of years Bob Mcleod served with Arriva Bus and Coach

briefly Stagecoach is investing £15,000 on installation and then over £7,500 each year to provide free WiFi for commuters on its Stagecoach Gold service operating between Aldershot, Farnborough, Frimley, Camberley and Old Dean. All of the 16 E-Leather upholstered ADL Enviro single deckers are being equipped with the ‘on-the-move’ system.

Richard Tyldsley, Operations Manager for Stagecoach’s Aldershot operation, said installation of the equipment would be completed by the end of April. “We are delighted to offer WiFi connectivity to customers on our Gold service which has seen year on year passenger growth of 5% since it launched in February 2009. Over 3,000 commuters now use the bus interchange at Farnborough Main Station every week.”

Chinese open-top buses hit the road Big Bus Tours’ open top double-deckers from Chinese manufacturer Ankai enter service in London Big Bus Tours recently took a delivery of 20 double-decker sightseeing buses, manufactured by the Anhui Ankai Automobile Limited Company. Having successfully completed the Individual Vehicle Authorisation (IVA) process, and subsequently gained approval by VOSA officials, Big Bus Tours has now launched these buses into service within its London fleet, helping to carry the million customers the company welcomes to London each year. The 20 new buses in London are being

Chinese-built sightseeing double deckers line up on London Bridge introduced as direct replacements for existing vehicles.

The 81-seater buses, assembled

by Ankai in China, are equipped with Cummins Euro 5 engines, Voith gearboxes and ZF axles. Half of the buses are fully open-top, and the others are of a half-top design. Their launch represents the culmination of a two-year collaborative consultation between Big Bus Tours and Ankai. The two

businesses have worked closely throughout the entire research and development process to ensure a bespoke product, specifically tailored to meet the needs of Big Bus Tours’ busy London sightseeing operation.

Ankai first supplied vehicles to Big Bus Tours in Dubai in 2007.

Since then, they have continually worked together, developing vehicles to meet the requirements

Newport Bus’ X30 bus service started serving the University Hospital of Wales on April 30, becoming the first direct public transport link between Newport and the Hospital.

The X30 service, the only express bus service to run between Newport and Cardiff, now calls at a new stop at the hospital adjacent to its main multi-storey car park.

Buses operate every 10 minutes to and from the hospital with services alternating between Cardiff Bus Station and Newport Bus Station.

Users of the service from Newport can travel to the hospital in 20 minutes, while those catching

the X30 from Cardiff should get there in 10 minutes.

Scott Pearson, Managing Director of Newport Transport, said: “The X30 service is one of the most popular in our network particularly amongst people using the bus to get to and from work. From our own customer research and work with the Cardiff and Vale University Local Health Board we realised many more people would benefit from this service stopping at the University Hospital of Wales.”

Paul Hollard, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board’s Interim Chief Executive, said: “The new express service provided by Newport Bus will make it even easier for patients, visitors and staff to get to University Hospital Wales without having to bring their cars.

“This collaboration is one of a number of projects the University Health Board is moving forward as part of its travel plan aimed at improving access to our sites and boosting sustainable travel.”

Newport gets first service to university hospital

www.coachandbusweek.com

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10%

The overall drop in passenger numbers in Wales over two years

STEVE HODGSON

of a number of other markets. Big Bus Tours has now incorporated Ankai buses into its fleets in Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Philadelphia.

Big Bus Tours’ Group Engineering Director, Gerry Price, said: “We pushed the Ankai team to deliver the best vehicle they could to meet the intensely busy service requirements of the London operation, whilst raising the bar in terms of quality of fit and finish needed to impress even our most discerning customers.

All of this went on within the very prescriptive realms of the IVA process; and although the process itself could not be classed as plain sailing, the products of the process, and even more importantly the efforts of the whole London engineering team in collaboration with the Ankai team, have resulted in an extremely impressive vehicle.”

Big Bus Tours currently operates a combined fleet of over 300 sightseeing buses worldwide, of which 74 have been manufactured

by Ankai.

Anhui Ankai Automobile Co., Ltd, which brands its products ‘Ankai’, is listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. It’s English language website can be found at http://english. ankai.com/

easyBus launches new airport transfer easyBus launched an express transfer service between London Luton Airport and Earls Court on Sunday April 22, with fares as low as £1 for a single journey.

The occasion was marked on Wednesday (April 25) with a cake cutting ceremony attended by Brian Callin, easyBus’ Chief Operating Officer and Rupert Lawrie, London Luton Airport Commercial Director.

Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, easyBus Chairman, said: “With overcrowding a major concern at London’s other airports, we want to play our part in ensuring London Luton helps take the strain.

“By using the tried and trusted ‘easy’ formula to expand value for

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SHARE WATCH

The number of seats in the new Big Bus double-decker tour buses

Buses should be an election issue say North East operators North East Bus Operators Association (NEBOA), the umbrella organisation for the region’s bus operators, has written to candidates in the forthcoming local elections to highlight issues involved in a proposed Quality Contract (QC) scheme.

Nexus and the Integrated Transport Authority (ITA) are considering options for introducing either a QC or a method of working in partnership with bus operators to deliver better bus services.

NEBOA says the scheme would lead to higher costs, fewer services and is unworkable. It estimates the contract scheme could increase every council tax bill in the county by £180.

The briefing document being sent to election candidates and sitting councillors points out when bus services were last under direct control in the 1980s, the cost to council tax payers almost doubled between 1977 and 1985. The operators claim costs have dropped dramatically up to 2011, falling to around one quarter of the 1985 figure.

Tom Dodds, Secretary of NEBOA and Stakeholder Manager at Go North East, said: “We think it’s important every councillor and

Brian Callin, easyBus’ Chief Operating Officer and Rupert Lawrie, Commercial Director London Luton Airport at the cake cutting ceremony money bus services, we will not only welcome visitors to the capital for the Olympics and the Diamond Jubilee but also ensure they have enough cash left to enjoy the best London has to offer.”

Rupert Lawrie, Commercial Director, London Luton Airport, commented: “This new easyBus

aspiring councillor is made very aware of the responsibilities that would be forced upon them by a contract scheme. Contracts are being promoted as a ‘dream solution’ to funding problems confronting Nexus and the ITA. The truth is, nine out of 10 bus services in the county are already provided without any call on Tyne and Wear’s council tax payers. Our fares are already amongst the cheapest in the country. Seizing control of the county’s bus services simply moves the financial risk from the private sector into the public sector, at a time when public sector finances face swinging cuts.

“Working in partnership to find real, affordable solutions to providing better bus services, is the only logical answer.”

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, April 30. BAE Systems saw the greatest proportional rise while 21st Century experienced the biggest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

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NEBOA warns QCs could add £180 to ratepayers’ council tax bills service is a welcome addition to the rich mix of public transport options already available, offering value and choice to our passengers and providing fast and easy access into Central London.”

The new route compliments the existing service between the airport and Victoria Coach Station. To accommodate this expansion, easyBus has invested in an additional 50 new customconverted 13-seat Renault Masters, with distinctive orange easyBus livery.

Serving the route between the airport and West Cromwell Road, Earls Court, the new services will offer over 1000 seats per day. The easyBus pick-up and drop-off point is close to Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre and underground station making it a convenient service for those visiting an exhibition or travelling to other parts of London.

The £1 introductory offer will apply to 20,000 seats for travel between April 22 and May 31, 2012.

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FTSE 100

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news › coaches

“You could always do things better but you could have done things a darn sight worse.

You’ve got to keep things positive.”

Bob McLeod Arriva Bus & Coach

briefly CPT Scotland has received several calls from operators who have recently received warning notices from the City of Edinburgh Council for using bus lanes. After discussions with officials at the Council it appears this is down to contractors who monitor the cameras and view the photographs misinterpreting the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). CPT says coaches should not be getting these warnings as they are covered by the TRO. The Council is working with the contractor to ensure further warnings/fines are not sent out to coach operators. Any operator who continues to receive these warnings is asked contact CPT Scotland on 0131 2722150.

Work to resurface the carriageway and replace road signs at the A46 roundabout with the A452 near Kenilworth is due to start May 7. The work, which also includes an upgrade of pedestrian crossings at the location, is due to take four weeks to complete. All activity will take place overnight between 2200 and 0600hrs. During the works there will be overnight closures of all slip roads to and from the roundabout to the A46.

The slip roads will not be closed at the same time to ensure easy access to alternative routes. One lane of the A46 will also be closed during the work.

The Highways Agency is to carry out drainage works on the northbound carriageway of the A1 near Grantham between the B1174/Great North Road junction and Toll Bar Road, starting May 8. The planned completion of the works is May 19. All work will be carried out between 2000 and 0600hrs.

During the works a combination of overnight lane restrictions, closure of the northbound on-slip and full closures of the north bound carriageway will be in effect.

Slight delays are expected overnight on the A1(M) near Darlington between J58 and 60 for resurfacing. There will be a full carriageway closure with diversion in place northbound between 2200 and 0600. The works will take place until May 9. www.coachandbusweek.com

News8,9.indd 8

News Focus p20

Edwards Expands New Swansea depot for coach holidays and National Express work – if all goes to plan South Wales family-run coach and bus operator Edwards Coaches is set to expand its coaching activities with the take over of First Cymru’s National Express work and the creation of new operating centres.

Confirming the news, a spokesperson for National Express told CBW: “The contract to operate services 201, 508, 528 and 322 will shortly transfer from First Cymru to Edwards Coaches. As part of the change a number of drivers will also move to the new operator and we are currently working with First Cymru to ensure this is handled in a sensitive manner.

The move will have no impact on National Express services between Swansea, Heathrow and Gatwick Airports which will continue to run as normal.”

Asked about the National Express contracts, Jason Edwards, Director at Edwards Coaches told

CBW he was “unable to comment at this stage.”

However, a First spokesperson told CBW: “We can confirm First Cymru will soon cease to operate National Express services in South Wales. The company had been in lengthy discussions with National Express over the future operation of services 201, 508, 528 and 322.

Following these discussions it was decided that in the best interests of all parties, the contract to operate the services should be passed to a third party from a date early in the early summer.

“It is expected that a number of staff currently employed by First Cymru in its coaching division in South Wales will be transferred to Edwards under normal TUPE arrangements.

“The decision to cease operating National Express services in South Wales follows the transfer of service 202 to Edwards Coaches earlier this year. First Cymru will cease to operate the latter from June 2.

“Other First Cymru coaching

A First Cymru-operated National Express route 201 journey to Gatwick Airport journey awaits departure from Cardiff Central Bus Station on September 3 2011

Maynes get Royal Scotsman luxury service appointment Maynes Coaches have been awarded the contract for the prestigious Royal Scotsman Train. As part of Orient Express, the Directors looked to Maynes to meet their high standards of coaching excellence whilst The

Royal Scotsman Travels through the Highlands of Scotland.

A journey on the train takes passengers straight to the heart of the Highlands, through landscapes of towering, pine-clad mountains reflected in mirror-still lochs.

services such as its Greyhound service between Swansea and Cardiff, and other private hire and school contract work is unaffected by this decision and will remain as they are.”

However, First said its Cardiff Depot still runs the occasional duplicate service for National Express and this is likely to continue despite the loss of the main contracts.

To operate the new service, CBW understands 16 new Caetano Levante-bodied Volvos are set to join the Edwards fleet – in addition to the five already on order for the Heathrow contracts.

Edwards has also gained authorisation to change its operating centres. Significantly, a new 40-vehicle depot has been created at 15B Dyffryn Close on the Swansea Enterprise Park.

Commenting on the Swansea development, Jason Edwards said: “We’ve invested a considerable sum in buying the old D Coaches yard to allow us to park a number of coaches. It also includes offices a workshop and an interchange for our coach holiday customers, where they can leave their cars if they wish. We feel there is massive potential in Swansea.”

New operating centres have also been granted at Wentloog Park, Rumney, Cardiff (30 vehicles); Aberllechau Road, Wattstown, Porth (eight vehicles); and at Wimborne Road, Barry (15 vehicles).

However, the firm has decreased its vehicle authorisation at its headquarters on the Newtown Industrial Estate, Llantwit Fardre, near Pontypridd to 82 vehicles. The firm’s depot at Leeway Industrial Estate, Newport, which was previously used for the operation of school contracts, has been closed.

Just 36 guests travel through Scotland´s finest countryside in private cabins, with an open-deck observation carriage behind. The luxurious train provides worldclass service, accommodation and cuisine on board.

Along the way, guests disembark to meet local personalities, talk to experts on subjects from salmon fishing to whisky and take part in fun activities.

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CPT & TfL launch new London coach parking map

Lucketts runs a large number of Irizar coaches

Top marks for Lucketts

Renowned family-run firm Lucketts Travel, which owns and operates Worthing Coaches and Coliseum Coaches, has been awarded the highest scores possible in two industry audits of its business.

The company was recently audited by CoachMarque and the Guild of British Coach Operators.

Both organizations aim to improve the UK coach industry, and work with their members to maintain and improve levels of customer service.

CoachMarque is currently the only quality mark for the coach industry, and requires the company to abide by the highest safety standards and systems of work to promote good quality travel. The

New Beverley coach park approved

East Riding Council’s cabinet has agreed to turn almost 50 car spaces in the town’s School Lane car park into an area for seven coaches.

Converting the car park will cost £18,000. A further £45,000 will be spent on installing a crossing in nearby New Walkergate.

Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for rural issues and cultural services, said: “The lack of suitable coach parking has been an issue for some time and the council is delighted we have come up with a solution that is widely supported by

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Guild is a forum of some of Britain’s best quality coach operators, and its audit ensures members continue to deliver top levels of service.

Ian Luckett, Director of Lucketts Travel, said: “With a media focus on coach safety in recent weeks, our industry is very much in the public spotlight. It is vitally important we not only provide the safest and best quality of service to our clients, but we can demonstrate this as well.

Our recent 100% pass in these two important audits does just that.

“It reflects the hard work of all of our staff who constantly strive to make each and every passenger’s journey safe and comfortable.”

Lucketts Travel is based in Fareham, Hampshire.

The 2012 edition of the London Coach Parking map was launched at the O2 in Greenwich on April 26,

by CPT President Mark Yexley and TfL Managing Director of Surface Transport, Leon Daniels.

As ever, the map has been produced jointly by TfL and CPT and details information on costs and opening times of coach parks/ bays, parking restrictions, useful contact details and information on best practice and passenger safety.

Speaking at the launch, where over 100 coach operators and stakeholders were gathered, Mark Yexley said: “CPT is delighted to be supporting the publication of the 9th edition of London Coach Parking Map. Since its creation the map has been developed and improved each year. It is an excellent example of the coach industry working in partnership

with local government and together we have created an important and valuable tool for operators visiting London. It’s a strong example of best practice CPT would like to see replicated throughout the country.”

Representing TfL, Leon Daniels said: “There are over 3000 coach movements a day in London with 1000 of these being private hire - bringing in tourists and visitors who will contribute over £300m to the local economy. The map with the helpline and website gives drivers and operators a better understanding of coach parking and driver facilities in London, particularly during the games.”

An interactive version of this map is available online at http://www.tfl.gov. uk/tfl/livetravelnews/realtime/ coaches/default.asp

Lucketts runs one of the largest coach fleets in the south of England. Call 01329 823755. Visit www.lucketts.co.uk

local people and organisations.”

Councillor Symon Fraser, cabinet portfolio holder for environment, housing and planning, said: “School Lane medium stay car park operates at well under capacity most of the time and the council has calculated problems would not result from the loss of medium stay car spaces.”

Alan Acklam, of Beverley-based coach operator Acklams Coaches, said: “The addition of coach parking provision at the School Lane car park is excellent news for both visitors to the town and for the coach operators that bring them in.”

The council intends to charge coaches £5.50 and a £9 for longer stays. Visit www. eastriding.gov.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

Coventry Park & Ride gets nostalgic re-launch Travel de Courcey returns the Park & Ride to its familiar burgundy and cream Some of Coventry’s most famous automotive names are returning to the streets of the city after the re-launch of its Park & Ride North bus service.

Local bus and coach operator Travel de Courcey has put the once familiar livery of burgundy and cream, used in the 1950s and 1960s, onto new MCV Evolutionbodied MAN buses. As a further tribute to Coventry’s automotive history, Travel De Courcey is naming the new buses after famous cars associated with the city, as it takes over the route.

The new-look single-deckers for Park & Ride North, which transport passengers from Courthouse Green into the city centre, are both named after the renowned Sunbeam models, the Rapier and Stilletto.

Ben Hobday, Project Manager for Travel de Courcey, said: “We felt it was important to give Park & Ride North its own identity to help people recognise the long running service.

“Whilst we haven’t made any changes to the timetable or route, we hope passengers notice the buses more and benefit from an improved service both in terms of

TfL wins minicab injunction

Transport for London (TfL) has won a High Court injunction to stop a minicab firm from illegally using bus lanes.

Private hire company Addison Lee had instructed its drivers to use the lanes, claiming the allowance for only licensed black taxis was “unfair discrimination.” TfL claimed this would affect the reliability of buses.

Mr Justice Eder ruled the minicab company cannot encourage its drivers to use the lanes and must not say it will pay any fines incurred.

In his ruling, the judge said the www.coachandbusweek.com

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comfort and reliability.”

Travel de Courcey now operates both Park & Ride services in Coventry, Park & Ride North and Park & Ride South.

Park & Ride North is based at Austin Drive, where there are over 160 free car parking spaces. The service operates with two 40-seater lowfloor and wheelchair-accessible vehicles running at regular intervals throughout the day, except on Sundays.

Park & Ride South operates from the War Memorial Park, Kenilworth Road, where there are just over 400 spaces for free parking.

Mike de Courcey, Managing Director of Travel de Courcey, said: “We are absolutely delighted to now be operating both of Coventry’s Park & Ride services and believe it is due to our high standards on Park & Ride South.

“We are looking forward to re-launching Park & Ride South servies in the near future using electric Optare Versas, the very first green buses of their kind in the UK. “The large fast-charging electric vehicles will have zero emissions along with the latest on-board features for the benefit of passengers and the environment.”

Pictured with the new-look Park & Ride North buses are, left to right, Managing Director Mike de Courcey, Project Manager Ben Hobday, Bus Services Manager Mick Rossiter and General Manager Bob Wildman indemnity given by Addison Lee to its drivers was void, since it incurred when an offence had been committed, however, it would be lawful for the company to reimburse any driver who had been fined.

He said the injunction was necessary to “prevent crime and protect the freedom of others”.

The judge added if the injunction was not granted, it would “lead to confusion among other private hire drivers and motorists as to the status of existing traffic regulations relating to bus lanes”. It would also lead to “congestion and traffic disruption on London’s roads and make enforcement against all those committing contraventions very difficult or impossible” for TfL or the police to enforce, diverting staff from other activities.

However, he said drivers were free to decide whether or not they would break the law.

A judicial review on the use of taxis in bus lanes should be expedited, he added.

Addison Lee said it hoped to overturn the legislation before the Olympic Games and would be appealing against the judge’s decision on the injunction.

Leon Daniels, TfL’s Managing Director of surface transport, said: “We maintain that Addison Lee’s instruction to its drivers was irresponsible and at odds with its position as a private hire operator.”

The ruling can be seen in full at http://www. bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/ QB/2012/1105.html

Ian Austin MP and Simon Mathieson with the Duncan Edwards bus

Bus tribute for ‘Busby Babe’ Duncan Edwards Ian Austin MP unveiled a special dedication to ‘Busby babe’ Duncan Edwards on a National Express West Midland’s bus on Monday, April 23.

The West Midland’s operator dedicated the bus on the 120 service to the Dudley born Manchester United player who tragically died in the Munich air disaster.

The Duncan Edwards bus is expected to carry thousands of passengers from the player’s hometown of Dudley to Oldbury, Bearwood and Birmingham every week. It’s one of 21 new buses recently introduced to the Black Country by National Express West Midlands.

Simon Mathieson, Operators Director for National Express, said: “It’s an honour to dedicate one of our new buses to Duncan Edwards, who is one of the Black Country’s most fondly remembered football heroes.

“The bus will travel through Duncan’s hometown of Dudley everyday in homage to his achievements.”

Ian Austin, MP for Dudley North, said: “Like any other lad from Dudley I grew up with the name Duncan Edwards ringing in my ears.

“You played for the Duncan Edwards cup. His caps and kits were on display at the leisure centre and now we’ve got a memorial statue of the player in the town.

“I think he should be an inspiration for every young person in Dudley: we’re as good as anyone and if you work hard, make the most of your opportunities and do your best then the sky’s the limit.”

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news › international

Arriva Nederland wins second major contract Arriva Nederland already has a strong presence in the country NETHERLANDS Arriva Nederland has won a €750m contract to operate bus services in the country’s South Holland province, its second major bus contract in a matter of weeks.

The eight-year concession, which has a two-year extension option, begins in December 2012 and adds to Arriva Nederland’s strong presence in the province where it already operates bus, rail and waterbus services.

Arriva Nederland will operate 230 WiFi-enabled low-emission buses. The company also plans to revamp timetables which will integrate the new bus services with its existing multi-modal networks in the South Holland regions.

Arriva will also open three new travel shops in Gouda, Alphen ann de Rijn and Leiden to help improve customer service and ticketing information.

Anne Hettinga, MD at Arriva Nederland, said: “To win two major contracts in the space of a few

Electric and hybrid bus test results revealed

BRAZIL The results of a hybrid and electric bus test programme have been revealed by the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group after tests in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

The transport sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America, and emphasis has been put on reducing emissions in the region. The test programme was established to reduce the carbon footprint of cities by testing bus technology in city-specific driving conditions, establishing if there is a case for investment in hybrid and electric buses and compiling and sharing results about the uptake of hybrid and electric buses.

Ten hybrid and all-electric buses www.coachandbusweek.com

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weeks is excellent news for the business and our employees.

“This latest contract win gives us the perfect opportunity to integrate our existing services in South Holland and offer the most comprehensive service for our customers.

“Passengers in the province want a top quality, integrated public transport system so we welcome the opportunity to deliver the services and network they deserve.

I am convinced our investment will attract more people to public

transport in the years ahead.”

The tender award is subject to a six-week appeal period which started on April 18.

As previously reported, on March 2 Arriva Nederland won a €450m contract to operate buses in north and south West Friesland and will continue to operate services on the island of Schiermonnikoog.

The eight-year contract, which also includes a two-year extension option, also begins in December 2012.

Arriva Nederland’s contract includes 230 WiFi-enabled low-emission buses from several manufacturers were tested as part of the programme.

In Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo the test included four buses – two hybrid and two diesel – and after completing the test protocol using conventional diesel fuel, one of the hybrid buses was also tested with renewable diesel from sugarcane.

They were tested under wide ranging conditions, which revealed; Hybrid buses are more fuel efficient than conventional diesel buses with reductions in fuel consumption in kilometre per litre of 21.4% to 44.1%.

The parallel hybrid bus system outperformed the rest of the field in all categories.

Fuel efficiency was essentially identical to that of conventional diesel when using sugarcane-derived renewable diesel.

The parallel hybrid buses produced fewer local air pollutants.

The C40 is set to enter into further campaigns in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Curitiba and Bogota.

Chilean delivery for Scania CHILE Scania is to supply 231 city buses to the Chilean capital Santiago for its Transantiago integrated public transport system, connecting bus lines and the metro network.

The vehicles are to begin running in September with operator Alsacia Express, which has extensive experience in operating buses in different integrated public transport systems throughout Latin America.

The buses feature 230bhp EEV engines in lowfloor K 230 4X2 chassis. The Scania bus chassis will be manufactured by the Brazilian bus bodybuilder Marcopolo.

Launched in 2007, the Transantiago integrated public transport system connects the entire city bus fleet of the Chilean capital and more than 100 kilometres of the metro network.

Scania is providing a comprehensive support package including operational leasing, training for employees and bus management, supplemented by maintenance and repair, the package also includes Scania’s own GPRS monitoring system.

Daimler Buses courts MCI after dropping Orion Buses USA Daimler Buses has announced fundamental changes to its operations in North America.

The company has signed a Letter of Intent with Motor Coach Industries International Inc (MCI) to establish a strategic partnership to combine MCI’s product, service and sales network with Setra’s North American coach distribution rights and network.

Daimler Buses is set to receive

Daimler ceasing production of Orion city buses in the US and Canada

a minority ownership stake in MCI, and MCI would become the exclusive North American distributor of the Setra S407 and S417 German-manufactured premium coaches.

Daimler also confirmed it is ceasing production of Orion city buses and combining the sales network of its Setra brand in MCI in a bid to save costs and improve efficiency. Orion plants in Mississauga, Ontario and Oriskany, N.Y. both cease bus production.

Oriskany remains open to focus on parts production and services for existing customers only.

Daimler blames falling sales and lack of government support for transit operations for its actions - although the New York Metro fleet incorporates a vast number of Orion hybrid buses supplied over the last few years.

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Commercial Garage Equipment Suppliers of a wide range of commercial vehicle equipment for the smaller, independent garages to the largest commercial vehicle fleet workshops.

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14 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

news › TOURISM

£237

Tour price for up to 25 people at Barnsdale Gardens, including entry

brIEfly Ticketmaster Groups has announced Singin’ in the Rain is now booking to February 2013 at the Palace Theatre on Shaftesbury Avenue. Nominated for 4 Olivier Awards, including Best Music Revival, Singin’ in the Rain has been hailed by critics as the ultimate feel-good show. With all the charm and tinsel town glamour of one of the world’s best-loved films, Jonathan Church’s brand new production gives theatre-goers everything they could ever want in a hit West End musical. Top price seats are reduced to £29.50 for groups of 10 plus, valid for Tuesday and Wednesday evening and Wednesday matinee performances.

Browsholme Hall lies in the forest of Bowland, four miles north-west of Clitheroe.

Browsholme is an historic house, unique in so many ways, including its antiquarian collection representing the accumulation of the personal possessions of 14 generations of continuous occupation. Coach tours and groups are welcome throughout the year by appointment and light refreshments in the Tithe Barn can be arranged. There is ample parking and easy access for coaches. The hall is open on limited days throughout the year. Contact Rebecca Clarke on 01254 827166 or rebecca@browsholme.com for further information and to make a booking.

High Beeches Garden is set in mid-Sussex on the Sussex Weald, just off the A/M23 and close to the M25. There are 27 acres of magnificent woodland and water gardens, full of rare, exotic and unusual plants; RHS award winning flora and a botanical treasure trove. The plant collection includes specimens from many parts of the world and champion trees. The gardens are open until October 30, every day between 1300 and 1700hrs, except Wednesdays. Prebooked groups of 20 plus visiting during normal opening hours are £5.50 per person. Groups can visit outside normal opening hours for a small additional charge.

For more information visit www. highbeeches.com or ring 01444 400589. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Get lost in a book in Tatton Park’s impressive library Discover the newly accessible room or explore the extensive grounds Visitors to Tatton Park’s mansion are being encouraged to feel ‘at home’ in the library with a special re-display of the stunning room.

A large area of the library has been made accessible to the public, creating an inviting seating area for visitors to read, relax and admire.

A visitors’ library of specially purchased books can be enjoyed

from beautifully re-upholstered sofas from Tatton’s collection. A number of fragile works have been digitised and stored on iPads for visitors to admire, without putting the originals at risk. Replica copies of some of the library’s finest and rarest books are being produced.

The library at Tatton is regarded as one of the National Trust’s top library collections. There are more than 12,000 books, varying from a treatise on architecture printed in 1513, to first editions of novels by

The library holds over 12,000 books, including first editions Jane Austin

Duxford’s tour season returns New for 2012 at The Imperial War Museum (IWM) is ‘Unseen Duxford – the Southside Tour’, which gives an insight into the historic buildings which can be seen by visitors as they explore the museum. The tour tells the story behind the bricks and mortar and reveals the original purposes of these fascinating buildings.

Due to its popularity in 2011, ‘The First World War Uncovered’ special interest day is returning, but looking at different aspects of the Great War with brand new speakers.

Other tours on offer for 2012 include: Duxford and the Battle of Britain Tour, looking at

There are a number of tours available at the famous war museum Duxford’s role as a Battle of Britain fighter station.

The Grand Tour – perfect for the discerning visitor, revealing the lesser-known stories and facts about IWM Duxford. In a whistle-stop tour of the museum, visitors get an introduction to IWM Duxford and its fascinating history, followed by tours of Land

Jane Austen and Sir Walter Scott.

The mansion is now open to the public until October 28 this season.

The 1000 acres of parkland are home to two herds of deer, and there is also a 50-acre garden to explore. The farm and Old Hall complete this impressive estate.

Group admission is £4.50 per person for a single attraction (farm, mansion, Old Hall or gardens) or £8 per person for a ‘Totally Tatton Ticket’ (entry to all attractions).

Entrance to the mansion is free for National Trust members.

Coach parking is free, and available in the main car park, 250 yards from the Stableyard and shops, with a drop-off point outside.

The park is located two miles north of Knutsford in Cheshire, just five miles from the M6.

The average visit length is three hours, but this can be extended with tours. For a full day in the area, the trip could be combined with a visit to Chester Zoo, Arley Hall or Dunham Massey (CBW1029).

Visit the website at www. tattonpark.org.uk or call 01625 374400 for more information.

Warfare, the American Air Museum, Conservation in Action, the Battle of Britain exhibition and AirSpace.

Land Warfare Tour, displaying what is claimed to be the finest collection of tanks, military vehicles and artillery in the country.

Unseen Duxford – the North Side Tour – similar to the new Southside Tour, providing a unique opportunity to explore unseen parts of Duxford.

Most tours have a maximum group size of 25. Booking in advance is essential. Free coach parking is provided with free admission for the driver. Group prices are £11.60 per adult, £10.15 seniors and £10.15 for students.

School visits are priced by group size.

For more information visit www.iwm.org.uk/visits/ iwm-duxford or call 01223 835000.

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1680 4 The year Exeter’s Quay House was rebuilt – used to store cloth

The number of Olivier Awards Signin’ in the Rain has been nominated for

HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY

Exeter’s Quayside is brought to life

The history and development of Exeter’s Quayside is brought to life at the Quay House Visitor Centre, with displays, artefacts and short films.

The Quay House was re-built in 1680 at the height of Exeter’s woollen cloth industry. The building was used to store cloth and other goods before they were loaded and transported down the canal.

The centre provides tourist information, Quayside treasure hunts, an accommodation booking service and a gift shop selling local pottery, replica maps and a wide range of local interest books.

The centre was refurbished in 2010 with improved layout, greater accessibility, more interpretation, new artefacts and better information.

Opening times are Easter to October – daily between 1000 and 1700hrs and November to March – Saturday and Sunday between 1100 and 1600hrs.

Admission is free, with groups of up to 50 welcomed by prior arrangement.

Coach parking is available nearby at Haven Banks Coach Park.

For more information email quayhouse@exeter.gov.uk or ring 01392 271611.

diesel prices

The Herb Garden is one of 39 gardens at Barnsdale

Visit the famous TV garden in Rutland Barnsdale Gardens, famous for being the setting for Gardeners’ World between 1979 and 1996, has been referred to as a ‘theme park for gardeners’. With 39 individual gardens there is plenty to see.

The 8-acre site, located close to Oakham and Rutland Water, is suitable for everyone, from keen gardeners to people looking for a pleasant and relaxing day out.

The gardens, nursery, shop and

tea rooms are open every day except December 24 and 25. Open times are 0900 – 1700hrs March to May, 0900 – 1900hrs June to August, 0900 – 1700hrs September to October and 1000 – 1600hrs November to February.

Group entry to the gardens requires advance booking, with rates for parties of 10 plus at £5 adults and £2 children.

Tours are available at a cost of £237 for up to 25 people and £450 for up to 50 people – the cost of entrance is included in the tour price.

There is ample coach parking.

Drivers get free entry and drinks.

Visit www.barnsdale gardens.co.uk or ring 01572 813 200 for more information.

ntpl alex black

DEALS OF THE WEEK Living Coasts is Torquay’s coastal zoo and conservation charity. It is open every day (except Christmas Day) from 1000hrs. With exhibits outdoors and indoors, there’s plenty to do whatever the weather. There is a chance to see many of the animals being fed, including penguins, puffins, seals and rays. Living Coasts welcomes groups of any size, but booking is essential. Discounted entry is available for groups of 15 or more.

The following prices are valid until the end of March 2013: Adults £7.85 per person, child (3-15 years old) £5.75 per person, senior/students £6.20 per person.

Coaches will only be able to drop off along the harbourside.

Nearest coach parking is located at

The gallery is located in the picturesque village of Hawkshead Daddyhole Plain (two-minute drive) or Lymington Road (seven-minute drive). For groups with elderly or disabled visitors, drop-off and pick-up right outside Living Coasts’ main entrance is available. n For more information about

coach bookings email info@ livingcoasts.org.uk or ring 0844 474 3366.

Hawkshead in Cumbria is home to both the Beatrix Potter Gallery and Hill Top, the 17th century farmhouse where

Cost per litre in pence: Great Britain Italy Sweden Ireland Greece Belgium France Czech Republic Netherlands Germany Hungary Portugal Austria Spain Poland Slovenia Luxembourg

147.90 142.03 138.96 130.82 129.27 127.06 126.65 123.56 123.46 122.89 121.68 119.04 118.30 113.72 112.52 111.10 105.79

holiday pound £1 will get you: Euro 1.23 Switzerland (Franc) 1.47 Norway (Kroner) 9.30 Hungary (Forint) 351.28 Czech Republic (Koruna) 30.61 Poland (Zloty) 5.12

Potter wrote many of her famous stories. On display at the gallery are original ink drawings for the privately printed first edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit – along with many other rarely seen items. Just two miles away is Hill Top, which has been kept exactly the way Potter left it. There is a traditional cottage garden planted with flowers, herbs and vegetables.

Group discounts are available for parties visiting both sites.

Nearest coach parking for Hill Top is one mile away, while there is a coach and car park 300 yards from the Beatrix Potter Gallery in Hawkshead.

Both Hill Top and the gallery are open daily between February 11 and November 4, apart from Fridays. Both sites are small, so groups may have to be split. n For more information email hilltop@nationaltrust.org.uk or ring 015394 36269. www.coachandbusweek.com

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16 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

news › REGIONAL

SCOTLAND

Motorists who use bus lanes in Glasgow face automatic £60 fines as a network of enforcement cameras goes live.

Glasgow City Council has installed the cameras at 11 locations around the city following a four-week awareness campaign.

The cameras use automatic number plate recognition technology which checks the registration of a vehicle against a list of approved numbers.

If a vehicle’s registration is not on the list it triggers a £60 penalty notice, which is sent to the registered keeper along with a digital image of the infringement.

For the last month drivers caught crossing the solid line into the bus lane have been sent warning letters advising them of the impending change.

Strathclyde Police used to take responsibility for bus lane enforcement but new civil enforcement legislation allows the council to issue penalty charges.

Brian Devlin, Executive Director of Land and Environmental Services, said: “The minority of drivers who abuse bus lanes are inconsiderate. Not only do they inconvenience others and cause frustration but they also threaten the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and other road users. We believe civil enforcement will help lower the number of offences in Glasgow, improve the flow of traffic on a number of congested stretches and improve the reliability of bus journeys on some key routes.”

A major review of bus lanes in Edinburgh is to examine whether the current system needs to be overhauled.

A consultation later this year will ask the public if they think the Greenways bus lanes, which have a variety of operating hours, should be standardised to avoid catching out motorists and landing them with heavy fines. The Greenways have only been reviewed once since 1997.

New cameras set up in 10 key areas to catch drivers cutting into bus lanes have already snared 3,670 drivers last month, with hundreds more handed £60 fines since a three-week grace period ended on April 23. Motoring groups have demanded the operational hours be brought in line, arguing having some open to vehicles for 20 hours per day and others permanently closed confuses drivers.

The review is not linked to the www.coachandbusweek.com

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KEY

SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST

introduction of the cameras but is to ensure the current system is fit for purpose.

Brian MacDowall, of the Association of British Motorists, said: “There should only be 24-hour bus lanes if the council can ensure they are going to be constantly in use.”

Allan Jackson, transport spokesman for the Edinburgh Conservatives, said: “There’s always been a problem with the varying of times, some are closed for 24 hours and others open for much of the day.

“I have seen people driving in them because they aren’t sure. The only thing which will help people is if there is publicity and I suppose the impact these fines will have.”

NORTHERN IRELAND

Translink is expecting a multi-million pound loss in the coming years, resulting in significant rises in rail and bus fares.

The state-owned operator said fares rise by an average of 3%.

BBC News reported the extent of the company’s financial position had been revealed by the Department for Regional Development (DRD).

The DRD had expected the firm to prepare a plan which would allow it to break even financially across the group which includes NI Railways, Metro and Ulsterbus.

Translink anticipates a profit of £2m this year (2012-2013) but then significant losses with a deficit of £11.6m expected in 2013-2014, and £10.5m the following year

(2014-15).

The DRD said the projected deficits reflect a combination of factors, including increasing fuel and wage costs, a fall in school transport income and the increasing cost of concessionary fares.

According to the report, the level of departmental funding to Translink has been significantly cut in the current budget.

A Translink spokesman said: “Per capita funding for public transport from the public purse is lower in NI than any other region on these Islands yet service provision is higher. We will be working with the DRD to understand the future public transport policy in light of this reduced funding. Our current operational model is efficient and has made over £12m of savings over the last few years.”

According to its latest accounts, Translink’s CEO Catherine Mason earned £199,000 last year, making her one of the most highly-paid heads of any public utility in Northern Ireland.

NORTH

First York is introducing an extended evening bus service on a trial basis.

The new timetable for route 11 between York city centre and Bishopthorpe, was launched last week.

The new journeys depart Stonebow at 1840, 2010, 2110

and 2210hrs and these will make return journeys to the city centre.

Additional Friday and Saturday evening journeys will leave Stonebow at 2310hrs although these will not make a return trip into the centre of York.

The trial runs until August, after which the usage of the additional services will be evaluated and a decision made about whether they are kept running.

Cllr Dave Merrett, the council’s cabinet member for city strategy, said: “I’m delighted we have managed to secure this trial following representations from South Bank and Bishopthorpe residents, and I hope it will be well enough used so it can become a permanent fixture.”

Network Warrington has chosen Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP) as its first charity of the year.

The operator has supported the WDP for a number of years through initiatives such as a bus in a special livery and by operating the free shuttle bus to the Disability Awareness Day at Walton Hall.

Dave Thompson, founder and chairman of WDP was invited to the company’s birthday celebration and staff recognition evening, held at the Park Royal Hotel, where he was presented with a cheque for £5,000.

He said: “It is a real honour for us to have been chosen as Network Warrington’s first charity of the year. We have had a very positive and longstanding relationship with them stemming back to the early 1990s. We are very proud of the special liveried bus that carries our logo and contact details which has helped to raise our profile.”

David Squire, MD, said: “In our 110th anniversary year we thought it particularly appropriate to pick WDP as our first ever charity of the year. This is their 21st anniversary which is a truly remarkable achievement and we are pleased to show our on-going support by naming them as our charity of the year and awarding them the grant.”

EAST

Stagecoach is reducing several so-called “lifeline” routes in Cambridgeshire after recent cuts to council funding.

Among the services being withdrawn is route 14 which runs from Cambridge to Caldecote via Madingley and Hardwick, while trimming of the Citi 7 route means Whittlesford will be left with just

30/04/2012 20:07

one bus daily.

The Citi 4 will take a more direct route through Cambridge, reducing the frequency of service to colleges in the Newnham area, and the 16/17, which runs through the city and onto Haverhill and Newmarket, will have a reduced frequency.

The 19 between Haverhill, Linton and Burrough Green, which is reportedly the most expensive route in Cambridgeshire at £12.09 per trip, is being cut completely.

Stagecoach said the remaining routes have a more secure future because they are being run commercially, rather than relying on subsidies. Cambridgeshire County Council had announced it was withdrawing subsidies for many of the affected routes in September 2012, with the hope of a possible commercial future, or replacement dial-a-ride services.

Andy Campbell, Stagecoach Cambridgeshire’s Managing Director, said: “We tried to provide the best level of service we can on a commercial basis. The council made the decision to cut subsidies over a year ago and that has had a detrimental effect on our services, people don’t know if they will continue running or not, and we

May 2, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17

Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you would like us to cover, contact James Day at james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

have come to the point where we have to do something.”

2012

SOUTH WEST

Users of the South Gloucestershire Bus & Coach Company-operated route 224, which runs once a day on weekdays only, have said they will be left with higher commuter costs after the service is withdrawn on May 20.

They claim alternative bus routes are not viable.

The service leaves Dursley at 0700 and travels through Cam and Berkeley before heading into Bristol city centre. It returns from Bristol at 1715hrs.

Alan Barrett, Gloucestershire County Council’s Urban Transport Manager, said the service has been reviewed last year and was found to be too expensive to run.

He said: “Previously the service cost us £12 for every return journey on top of the farebox revenue – and that’s just not sustainable, so the service will be withdrawn.”

Barrett added the council had negotiated connecting services between Dursley and Cam and Dursley Railway Station and extra services into and out of Thornbury for people travelling to Bristol.

n April 24-26 CV Show.

NEC, Birmingham. 01634 261262. www.cvshow.com n April 25-26 Arriva Bus & Coach (dealer) Open Days.Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire. 02174 681144. www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk n May 5 – 7 Llandudno Festival of Transport. Bodafon Fields, Llandudno, North Wales. 01492 545053. www.llantransfest.co.uk n May 6 Roselyn Coaches Open Day. Middleway Garage, Par, Cornwall. 01726 813737. www.roselyncoaches.co.uk

n August 27 The National Association of Road Transport Museums gala day. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk

n May 12-13 Model and Collectors Exhibition. Presented by Oxford Bus Museum and the Witney Model and Collectors’ Club. www. oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

n September 6 Association of Trainers AGM. Steele Road, Wembley Julia@asot.org.uk 01797 344251

n May 22-23 ALBUM Conference.

– Forest Pines Hotel, near Brigg, North Lincolnshire.

www.albumconference.co.uk

n June 4 Imberbus’ service, using Routemaster buses from Warminster, across rarely-seen parts of Salisbury Plain. warminstervbrd.

zxq.net/v/imber.htm

n June 5 – 7 Transports Publics 2012. The European Mobility Exhibition, Paris. www.transportspublics-expo.com n June 10 Barry Festival of Transport. Organised by Cardiff Transport Preservation Group, Barry, South Wales. postmaster@-ctpg. co.uk. www.ctpg.co.uk n June 22 CILT Wales National Transport Awards lunch. Cardiff City Hall. 01446 451227. www.ciltuk. org.uk/pages/regions/wales n July 1 Reading Transport Great Knollys Street Open Day. 11 – 1600hrs. 0118 959 4000. www.reading-buses.co.uk

International opera star Graeme Danby is on a musical mission. He wants to teach the world to sing ‘The Blaydon Races’, the so-called Geordie national anthem. In 2008, Graeme led the singing of the anthem on the St James’ Park pitch before a capacity crowd at the Newcastle – Sunderland derby game. To kick off his recent campaign, Graeme joined passengers on the road to Blaydon aboard Go North East’s (GNE) Blaydon Racers service to find out just how many people know the words.

Unfortunately the results were rather disappointing.

“I was hoping at least a good handful would know the words, but sadly I was mistaken,” said Graeme. “It’s the 150th Anniversary of the Blaydon Races this year and it would be great if we could get everyone singing it.”

Now GNE is supporting the campaign by displaying the words to the song on each of route’s buses. Commercial Director Martin Harris said: “Thousands of people use our Blaydon Racers service every week through Blaydon, the Metrocentre and Gateshead. Putting the lyrics on the buses will give everyone a chance to be word perfect before the big day in June.”

Cornish operator Roselyn Coaches is hosting its second Open Day at Middleway Garage, Par this coming Sunday (May 6)

n July 15 Alton Bus Rally & Running Day. Mid Hants Railway, Alton, Hampshire. www.watercressline.co.uk n July 16-18 TPM. The tenth annual conference of the Transport Practitioners Meeting (TPM) will be held at the John Moores University, Liverpool www.ciltuk.org n August 3-5 Bedford OB GetTogether. South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester, GL7 5QB. Contact the organiser Tim Wootton by email on tim@tjcs.freeserve.co.uk. Visit

http://www.bedfordob.com/

n September 8-9 UK Bus Driver of the Year, Blackpool. Call competition secretary Bill Holmes on 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk n Sept 9 Amberley Bus Show.

Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, West Sussex. www.amberleymuseum.co.uk n September 16 Showbus.

Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire. www.showbus.com n September 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles. Hannover. +(00)49 30897842. www.iaa.de n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n October 18 CILT Annual Awards for Excellence Dinner. London.

01536 740104. www.ciltuk.org.uk n October 21 The Very Best of London Buses. Brooklands, Surrey.

Featuring 50 years of Routemaster buses. London Bus Museum. www. londonbusmuseum.com n November 6-8 Euro Bus Expo.

NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com n November 20 UK Bus Awards London Hilton Park Lane. www.ukbusawards.org.uk

2013 n Jan 1 New Year’s Holiday Open Day. Oxford Bus Museum. www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

Do you have an event to promote? Send details to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

RegionalNews.indd 17

30/04/2012 20:08

18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

news › BUSINESS

£95m

Projected year end net debt for GoAhead Group due to acquisitions

briefly Two of the UK’s so-called ‘Big Five’ operators have a better ethical record than Apple and Google, according to a globalsustainability league table from Eiris. FirstGroup, was named second best in the world for social, environmental and governance, while Go-Ahead Group was 10th best globally. FirstGroup has improved the fuel efficiency of its UK bus fleet, installed solar panels and harvested rainwater.

It was “demonstrating significant improvements in its environmental performance, thereby mitigating risks associated with its environmental impact,” Eiris said.

Go-Ahead Group was praised for generating more than 90% of its turnover from sustainable public transport.

Following a recent meeting with garage trade body RMI Petrol, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) announced its provisional decision that it does not plan to launch a market study into UK road fuel retailing at this time. RMI Petrol submitted evidence from independent forecourts to the OFT in mid-February and requested a new Market Study be initiated under the Enterprise Act 2002.

Brian Madderson, RMI Petrol Chairman commented: “We had a useful discussion with the OFT to examine its findings to date and understand better its position following the submittal of our report back in February. The OFT has invited us to provide further evidence in support of our original submission. We intend to do this in conjunction with our members and interested third parties before the OFT reaches a final view in mid-June.”

The International Labour Organization (ILO) describes the global employment situation as “alarming” and ‘unlikely to improve soon.’ The agency said austerity measures, especially in advanced economies, were hindering job creation. The situation was likely to get worse amid slowing global growth and more people entering the workforce. High unemployment has been a concern in the US and other major economies and has hurt the global economic recovery. www.coachandbusweek.com

BusinessNews.indd 18

First quarter income and net sales down for Scania Order bookings for buses and coaches decreased by 25% compared to the same period in 2011 while net sales of buses and coaches rose by 4% Scania’s first quarter financial report claims lower vehicle deliveries and lower capacity utilisation pulled down earnings, as did higher costs for future-related projects.

Operating income fell to SEK 2,323m (3,339); earnings per share fell to SEK 2.24 (3.14) while net sales decreased by 3% to SEK 20,127m (20,692).

Leif Östling, Scania President and CEO, said: “A more favourable market mix had a positive effect, as deliveries in Brazil were supported by some 2,000 Euro 3 vehicles during the first quarter. Total deliveries fell due to a deceleration in demand in late 2011. Scania has adjusted its production rate to the current level of demand. The market in southern Europe is still at a low level. Order bookings in Latin America were adversely affected during the quarter by the transition to Euro 5 vehicles in Brazil. In Eurasia, demand remains at a good

Scania celebrated its centenary in 2011 but orders for buses and coaches decreased by 25% in this year compared to the same period in 2011

Volvo Buses income declines in first quarter Volvo Buses’ operating income has declined in the first quarter of 2012 although net sales increased by 10%.

The decline to SEK 62 M is attributable to pricing pressure in Europe and low capacity utilisation in the manufacturing system in Europe and Brazil.

The 10% net sales increase to SEK 5,224 M was driven by significantly higher deliveries in

Brazil in connection to the new, stricter emission regulation.

Adjusted for currency fluctuations, net sales increased by 7%.

The company believes the global bus market is recovering in varying degrees, with volumes lower in Europe compared to 2011. It claims the number of registrations

Net sales by market area SEK M

First First Quarter Quarter % 2012 2011 Change

Europe N America S America Asia Other TOTAL

1,197 1,322 (9) 1,831 1,656 11 1,110 349 218 669 892 (25) 417 524 (20) 5,224 4,742 10

level. Order bookings in the Middle East were still at a low level and the outlook is uncertain. Elsewhere in Asia, an increasing interest in Scania’s high quality products and services is discernible.

“Engines noted higher order bookings, mainly driven by Europe.

Demand for service is generally at a high level, with growth being driven

by Latin America. Scania is wellpositioned in the market through its latest and product releases.”

Trucks and buses order bookings were down 19% from 19,457 in 2011 to 15,809, with deliveries down 15% from 19,065 in 2011 to 16,238.

Order bookings for buses and coaches weakened during the first quarter, mainly attributable to Europe, compared to the end of 2011. Scania’s order bookings for buses and coaches decreased by 25% overall to 1,574 (2,103) units during the first quarter of 2012 compared to the same period in 2011, while net sales of buses and coaches rose by 4% to SEK 1,449m (1,398) during the first quarter of 2012.

In Europe, order bookings decreased by 41% compared to the first quarter of 2011. The company claims the downturn was due to a major order in the Netherlands which was recorded in the first quarter of last year.

Order bookings in Latin America

in southern Europe has declined significantly.

Deliveries during the first quarter of 2012 amounted to 2,800 buses, compared with 2,533 in the year-earlier period, up 11%.

South America also accounts for the largest increase in this quarter.

One of the reasons for the upturn is higher deliveries of the front-engine buses which were introduced in 2011.

The order intake for the first quarter amounted to 2,256 buses, compared with 2,369 in the yearearlier period, down 5%.

During the first quarter, 184 hybrid orders were signed in the UK, of which the largest order to date is 77 double-decker buses for Arriva in London.

30/04/2012 22:02

May 2, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19

2.7% 1,389 The growth of Stagecoach’s UK regional bus segment

were adversely affected during the quarter by the transition to Euro 5 vehicles in Brazil. Order bookings also decreased in Chile and Argentina.

In Asia, orders fell by 34% compared to the first quarter of 2011, mainly related to the Middle East. Orders in Africa and Oceania increased by 84%.

Scania’s bus and coach deliveries totalled 1,389 (1,503) units during the first quarter of 2012. In Europe, deliveries fell by 5% compared to the first three months of 2011.

In Latin America, deliveries were essentially unchanged at 572 units.

Deliveries in Brazil were supported by some 250 Euro 3 buses during the first quarter 2012. In Asia, deliveries decreased by 34% while bus and coach deliveries in Africa and Oceania rose by 46%.

Vehicle production has been adjusted to the current level of demand in two steps. In November 2011, Scania lowered the daily production rate on a global basis by about 15% compared to the end of the third quarter of 2011.

Starting in January 2012, the daily production rate was further lowered by about 15%. The changeover to the new engine range in Latin America was completed during the first quarter.

Scania will construct an industrial facility near Bangalore during the coming year. The facility will be the centre of Scania’s commercial operations in India. The industrial operations will consist of final assembly of truck and bus chassis, bodywork and fitting out of complete vehicles. Production is expected to start in early 2013.

Positive outlook for Stagecoach and National Express

Stagecoach has reported regional operations for its UK bus segment have grown 2.7% in like-for-like sales, while National Express has also said it expected passenger revenue to continue to grow in its bus and coach divisions in 2012, as people opt to travel by bus due to higher fuel costs and more expensive rail travel.

BusinessNews.indd 19

Scania’s total bus unit deliveries during the first quarter of 2012

Last week Go-Ahead Group announced the acquisition of East of England independent Anglian Bus. An Wrightbus-bodied Scania is seen here in Norwich working route 123 to Wroxham

Steady as she goes for Go-Ahead The Go-Ahead Group plc has announced its Interim Management Statement for the period from January 1, 2012 to April 25, 2012.

The group claims trading in the third quarter has been solid and its expectations for the full year to June 30, 2012 remain unchanged.

Since February, Go-Ahead has acquired First London East’s Northumberland Park bus depot in Tottenham, plus the Essex-based

company Hedingham Omnibuses and, most recently, Anglian Bus based in Suffolk.

Outside London, year to date revenue (excluding acquisitions) increased by around 4% and passenger numbers were up around 3%, with stronger growth in fare-paying passengers being partly offset by recent weaker concessionary performance.

Passengers continue to take advantage of value for money period passes and smartcards and this has reduced the average yield per customer for the company but provides the opportunity for longterm growth.

Following the Government’s

Stagecoach’s UK bus operations have been under the spotlight ever since FirstGroup issued a profit warning at the end of March which triggered a spate of broker downgrades and wiped a third off FirstGroup’s shares. “(Stagecoach’s) UK bus is not seeing the same margin pressure as First Group,” said Andrew Evans from financial group Nomura.

FirstGroup reported last month that the performance of its UK bus business was weakened due to lower economic activity, particularly in Scotland and the North of England.

“We remain positive on Stagecoach,” Gerald Khoo of Espirito Santo Investment Bank said. “The shares have recovered

some of the ground lost since the recent FirstGroup warning, but this trading statement has reassured us there is no direct read across from the latter’s problems.”

Across the pond, National Express reported a 5% increase in North America revenue last month while FirstGroup said its U.S. school bus and Greyhound operations continued to perform well.

Stagecoach’s North America bus business’ like-for-like sales rose 14% in the 11 months ended March.

For the 48 weeks ended April 1, Stagecoach reported an 8.8% increase in like-for-like sales at its UK rail business – its largest business – which includes South West Trains.

decision to reduce funding through cuts in BSOG and as a result of increasing fuel prices, Go-Ahead is to review its fares and target cost efficiencies in the fourth quarter.

The Group said its London bus business performed strongly in the quarter. Excluding acquisitions, year to date revenue and mileage rose by over 4% and 2%, respectively.

Go-Ahead Group remains in a good financial position with strong cash generation and a robust balance sheet, underpinning its dividend policy and allowing flexibility to pursue further valueadding opportunities.

David Brown, Group Chief Executive of Go-Ahead, said: “I am pleased to report continued growth in both our bus and rail divisions. In bus, our focus of operating in urban areas, predominantly in the South East, combined with our strategy of local management and marketing has continued to deliver growth.

“Our sector leading London bus business performed strongly in the quarter and we were pleased to announce the acquisition of the Northumberland Park depot in North London, demonstrating our long term confidence in this market.

Whilst we continue to be cautious about the wider economic outlook, we remain confident that we will deliver a full year result in line with our expectations.

“Due to recent acquisitions in our bus division, year end net debt is projected to be higher than previously stated at around £95m.”

The Interim Management Statement can be viewed at www.go-ahead.com

Passenger numbers are increasing slowly but steadily according to the Stagecoach and National Express groups – in the UK and USA www.coachandbusweek.com

30/04/2012 22:04

20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 4, 2012

news focus › ARRIVA BUS & COACH

All Change at the Top Coach & Bus Week’s Gareth Evans reports on the retirement of Arriva Bus & Coach’s popular Managing Director Bob McLeod and meets his successor Steve Hodkinson at the renowned dealership’s open day last Thursday One chapter closed and another opened on Thursday. Arriva Bus & Coach’s highly respected Managing Director Bob McLeod retired and his successor Steve Hodkinson formally took over the reins.

The occasion was the West Yorkshire dealership’s first open day event in almost three decades.

It appeared to be more of a family gathering than a sales event.

Visitors came from various parts of the country – ranging from Peter Fenn of Fenn Holidays to Ted and www.coachandbusweek.com

NewsFocus_Arriva.indd 20

his daughter Trish from Woods of Barnsley and Phil Rogers from Eavesway. Many would argue the approach typifies that of the Cleckheaton-based dealership: a warm welcome with a professional, personal service at its heart.

In a scene reminiscent of a Christmas nativity play many came bearing gifts for Bob – a clear indicator of his popularity if ever it were needed.

Introducing the new MD At first glance it would be easy to dismiss Steve as a ‘non-coachman’ who is ‘green’ to our industry.

Chatting to him over a coffee, it soon becomes apparent he’s a man who benefits from experience in an industry which is not entirely dissimilar to our own, with one notable exception.

“I led Toyota’s forklift truck business,” he told CBW. “I joined as Finance Director but I drifted into general management and in due course became Managing Director. To use a football analogy, we transformed ourselves into the mid table championship to Chelsea or Liverpool’s position.

We became a thorn in the side of the big boys. Between 2005 and 2007 I was President of the British Industrial Truck Association. I like to think that meant we’d arrived as a major player in the market place.

It’s astonishing to think Toyota was well known as a car manufacturer but seemingly unheard of as a forklift truck manufacturer.

“We were unique in the market in that we operated through a dealer network which meant we were a distributor but also because we worked with the dealer network, we had a hand with the short-term rentals, used vehicles and partexchanges. There are of course significant synergies with this market.”

Steve continued: “However, I’ve noticed how different the relationships are between suppliers and operators. In bus and coach

it’s very personal between us as a dealer, our people and our customers. I’ve met so many customers over the last couple of days who’ve gone through life together with us. There’s a mutual respect between us. It’s great.”

Asked what changes, if any he intends to make, Steve replied: “This company has been in existence for a long time. It’s traded profitably throughout and it’s been operated successfully. I don’t see a need to change that. However, with my firm belief in continual improvement ethos I’ll be seeking to deliver an even better service to our customer base. There’s room for improvement and to increase market share – but it must be done sensibly and continuing our tradition of keeping customers at the centre of everything we do.”

Bye bye Bob After over 23 years, Bob McLeod handed back his badge and company car on Thursday.

“It’s been an enjoyable and steady time,” he told CBW. “When I joined in 1989, Cowie Group operated 178 buses and coaches

30/04/2012 16:51

April 4, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 21

Bob McLeod:

a personal tribute by Peter Bibby

Bob’s always been the same. There are some people you can deal with who are up and down. Bob’s always been professional, focused on service and customer relationships. We’ve dealt with him since April 1989. He’d just started there at the time. He asked how I’d be paying for the coach and I said I’d give him so much now and then so much each month. He still remembers the conversation to this day.

Bob wasn’t just after a deal – he wouldn’t let you overstretch yourself.

It wasn’t just about sales figures. He could see the bigger picture. If you overstretched yourself, he knew you wouldn’t be back the following year.

Also, Bob was never aloof – he always came to shake hands. He was approachable and that was a relationship which worked both ways.

While he’d let the sales manager do the selling, Bob knew what was going on. He wasn’t stuck upstairs in his office, he was very much in tune with what was going on.

Clockwise from far left: This was the scene early on Thursday morning; Steve Hodkinson and Bob McLeod; Replacing headlamp bulbs on the new TX can be done with ease – they can be opened with a small lever; L.J.Edwards’ new Van Hool TX; Peter Bibby presents Bob McLeod with a white envelope; Smart airy interior of the TX; And the revised dashboard arrangement on the TX. New features include the multi-function joystick in the bottom right-hand corner and locker locking switches near the door with Grey Green. Today Arriva operates 15,000 buses and then of course there’s DB. “While all those developments have been going on, as a dealership we’ve been making a steady profit.

We’ve not gone bankrupt or had our balance sheet reconstructed as has happened with some bigger manufacturers.

“It’s always been about close customer relationships, selling quality vehicles with quality backup. That remains the case and the business will continue to improve on it.”

From a CBW perspective, Bob has always been great to deal with – and the same goes for the rest of the team. With the greatest of respect, while not as quiet as a mouse, Bob is also a concise speaker. Indeed, he politely declined an opportunity to give a ‘Face to Face’ interview earlier this year. Therefore, when he does speak formally, his remarks are often worthy of note.

In words which will strike a chord with many, Bob concluded: “You could always do things better but you could have done things a darn sight worse. You’ve got to keep things positive and spirits high.”

NewsFocus_Arriva.indd 21

Van Hool TX Aside from the personnel changes, the undoubted centre of attention in vehicle terms was the Van Hool TX coach due to be supplied to L.J. Edwards of Hailsham, East Sussex.

John Edwards told CBW: “In the last 10 years we’ve bought Bova but we’ve now decided it’s time for something different. I like the floorlevel WC and rear servery as they’re features which are important for our principally elderly customer base.

“I’d particularly like to thank Sarah and her team at Stoke Park Finance for brokering the deal.”

Other vehicles on display included a Wright VDL bus, a 2006 Van Hool T9 and a Temsa Safari.

A worthwhile event?

Sales Manager Robert White described the two-day open event as “very successful.” “We also sold a number of vehicles on the back of it,” he said.

Asked whether the event would be repeated, Robert replied: “Most definitely yes – but it shouldn’t take 29 years for us to do it again.”

A raffle was also held, with eight operators winning bottles of champagne.

www.coachandbusweek.com

30/04/2012 16:52

22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

LEGAL news › public inquiry

Forged licences lead to disqualification VOSA investigation leads to Public Inquiry after operators attempt to circumvent licence requirements Pamela Watkins, trading as K+S Travel, was granted a restricted operator’s licence in September 2004 with authority for two vehicles. Goytre Minibus Services Ltd was granted a restricted PSV operators licence in October 2004 also with authority for two vehicles. According to Office of the Traffic Commissioner records the sole director of Goytre Minibus Services Ltd has been Alwyn Margaret Watkins since the original grant. Companies House records show she resigned as a director in 2007. It transpires she died in January 2011. Companies House records also show Stephen Hughes and Stephen Watkins have been directors since 2007 and 2010 respectively. The Office of the Traffic Commissioner was not informed of any change of directors.

An investigation by VOSA took place after a member of the public who had been drinking alcohol fell into the path of a minibus driven

by Stephen Watkins and died.

However, there was no question of Stephen Watkins being at fault for the accident.

A Public Inquiry (PI) was convened to consider the outcome of VOSA’s investigation including whether two restricted PSV licences were run in an endeavour to circumvent the requirement for a standard national licence with a transport manager.

The Hearing A PI was held at Cardiff Magistrates Court on January 31, 2012. In attendance from VOSA were Traffic Examiner Anthony Lewis, Vehicle Examiner Steven Cooke and Vehicle Examiner Robert Mitcham. Stephen Watkins attended represented by Paul Carless, a transport consultant.

Until the day before the hearing Carless had expected to represent Pamela Watkins, but he received a letter from her the night before which indicated she would not be attending and had no intention www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalNews.indd 22

VOSA discovered a forged O-licence was displayed in a vehicle of attending any future hearings.

Carless confirmed that whilst he represented Stephen Watkins, he did not represent Pamela Watkins as there was now a clear conflict.

Stephen Hughes, director of Goytre Minibus Services Ltd, did not attend.

Evidence The Traffic Commissioner (TC) Nick Jones referred to the cases of South Bucks District Council and another v. Porter (FC) (2004) UKHL 33 and English v Emery Reimbold & Strick Ltd [2002 EWCA Civ 605] in relation to written decisions generally.

The TC found there were no significant issues with vehicle conditions. Whilst there were

prohibitions and convictions, in terms of proportionality they would not have in themselves resulted in severe regulatory action.

At the hearing, there was no attempt to hide the fact the two restricted PSV operator licences were run by Stephen Watkins as one and that this circumvented the need for a standard national licence with a Transport Manager. The TC decided this was undertaken with view to gaining a commercial advantage.

Evidence set out in the PI briefs included that ofvehicles operating without valid MOT certificates and vehicles operating without valid Certificates of Initial Fitness (COIFs).

Stephen Watkins was asked

about his arrangements for insuring the vehicles on the two licences. He said they were all on a single policy in the name of Goytre Minibus Services Ltd. It was confirmed the motor insurance company was told all of the vehicles were operated on the Goytre Minibus Services Ltd licence and it did not know some of the vehicles were licensed to Pamela Watkins trading as K+S Travel. The TC said the material non disclosure and the material false information to the insurance company would more than probably result in insurers declining to accept liability.

This was conceded by Carless.

The TC found, on the balance of probabilities, some vehicles were carrying passengers uninsured.

Investigations were delayed as VOSA made a number of unsuccessful attempts to make contact with Pamela Watkins.

Originally Stephen Watkins told a traffic examiner Pamela Watkins was away on holiday. Another date was then arranged to speak to her, but on that occasion the traffic examiner was told Pamela Watkins was ill and unable to attend for interview. On yet another occasion when an attempt was made to interview Pamela Watkins, Stephen Watkins told VOSA she was in hospital and that he would ring back in two hours – he did not do so.

Over a month after the original attempt to contact Pamela Watkins, staff from the operator told VOSA that Stephen Watkins was visiting his wife in hospital. These staff were asked to tell Steven Watkins to ring VOSA back when it was convenient. Despite a promise to do so, a telephone call was not made to the traffic examiner.

Eventually Stephen Watkins sent a letter to VOSA with various assurances as to compliance for Goytre Minibus Services Ltd. He also listed attachments which he claimed were enclosed with the letter. The attachments supposedly related to sick notes but no attachments were with the letter.

A telephone call to Stephen Watkins resulted in a promise from him that he would send copies of the attachments, but none were received. Eventually, after more prevarication, personal contact was made with Pamela Watkins, almost three months after the original inquiry. She confirmed she had neither been on holiday nor had she been hospitalised.

30/04/2012 21:46

May 2, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 23

At the PI on January 31, Stephen Watkins admitted his wife had not been ill and had not been on holiday. This was described as a “white lie”. The TC believed the untruths were not isolated; they were sustained; and there was a concerted attempt to deceive both him and VOSA. During VOSA’s investigation it was discovered that a forged operator’s licence was displayed on a vehicle. Carless told the TC it was a crude forgery which was easily identifiable. The TC believed that while a trained eye might recognise it as questionable, many would have accepted it as genuine.

Notwithstanding the quality of the forgery, Stephen Watkins accepted he produced the forged disc with intent to deceive.

Vehicles were being run which required tachographs but did not have them. Furthermore, there was a complete absence of any system for record keeping.

The TC regards the failures and deceits by Stephen Watkins to be serious, going to the heart of the position of trust which is essential in operator licensing.

The evidence in respect of Pamela Watkins includes her having being previously reminded

by VOSA that whilst she left much of the running of her licence to her husband, she was still personally responsible. The TC believed she was well aware of her responsibilities, although accepts it was her husband who ran the two licences and was the prime mover in the business. The TC said: “The failures identified for both operators were not minor ones; they go to the heart of the issue of trust.

“I reflect that neither operator can be trusted and deplore the serious, concerted and dishonest actions. When I ask myself the question whether these are operators that should be put out of business, I answer in the affirmative in the strongest possible terms. There are many good compliant operators who have been put at a competitive disadvantage compared with K+S Travel and Goytre Minibus Services Ltd. Passengers have also been put at risk having been carried in uninsured vehicles without valid MOTs or COIFs.” Stephen Watkins runs small vehicles under licences issued by a local authority. The TC believes that while he has no place in any

LegalNews.indd 23

operator licensing system which is based on trust, his fitness to run licences regulated by local authorities is a matter for others to decide.

Decisions Pamela Watkins has made it clear she has no intention of using her licence; furthermore Stephen Watkins now has no authority to run any of the vehicles on her licence and she does not want him to do so anymore. Her operator’s licence has been revoked. Stephen Watkins’ operator’s licence has also been revoked.

Reflecting on paragraph 69 of the Statutory Guidance the TC noted the minimum period for personal

“Vehicles were being run which required tachographs but did not have them.

Furthermore, there was a complete absence of any system for record keeping.”

TC Nick Jones deplored the “serious, concerted and dishonest actions”

Key Points: VOSA carried out investigation after someone fell into the path of a Goytre minibus and died A number of lies were told to VOSA regarding the whereabouts of Pamela Watkins VOSA found a forged operator’s licence was displayed on a vehicle All three individuals involved have been disqualified from holding an operator’s licence for varying amounts of time

disqualification is one year, which he set for Pamela Watkins. She has allowed her husband to operate vehicles without MOTs, COIFs or insurance knowing she was responsible for any failures perpetuated in her name. She had been warned by VOSA before and she was being complicit in the deceit whereby employment of a transport manager was avoided.

In the case of Stephen Watkins his disqualification is one of three years from the date of revocation of the Goytre Minibus Service Ltd licence. The length of the disqualification in his case reflects the fact that he allowed vehicles to run without valid insurance thereby putting passengers at risk; he ran vehicles without valid MOT certificates; operated vehicles without COIFs; forged an operator licence disc; deliberately circumvented the licence regime so he could avoid employing a transport manager; and, especially serious, he lied on a persistent basis to VOSA as to the whereabouts and availability of his wife Pamela Watkins.

Stephen Hughes, a director of Goytre Minibus Services Ltd, did not attend the PI but the evidence on file is he was involved in the running of operations. The TC noted directors have joint responsibilities. Applying the criteria in the Statutory Guidance, Stephen Hughes should be disqualified although in his case it is for a relatively token period of six months from the date of the revocation of the Goytre Minibus Services Ltd licence.

All three individuals who have been disqualified under Section 28 of the Transport Act 1985 should not expect to be able to automatically hold a licence at the end of their disqualification periods; a disqualification merely makes it illegal to apply for or hold a licence. There will still be need to satisfy the TC that, at the time of any future application, they are fit to resume a role in the industry.

In respect of the restricted PSV operator’s licence PG1038002 held

by Pamela Watkins t/a K+S Travel, the following decisions are made:findings are made a Adverse under Sections 17 (3) (a) and Section 17 (3) (aa) of the Act. holder of the licence b The no longer satisfies the requirement to be of appropriate financial standing under Section 17 (3) (d) of the Act.

Since the licence was granted there has been a material change in that the holder of the licence is no longer fit to hold an operator’s licence under Section 17 (3) (e) of the Act. Licence PG1038002 d Operator’s is revoked forthwith.

Watkins is e Pamela disqualified from applying for or holding an operator’s licence in any traffic area for a period of one year under Section 28 of the Transport Act 1985.

In respect of the restricted PSV operators licence PG1038923 held

by Goytre Minibus Services Ltd the following decisions are made:findings are made a Adverse under Sections 17 (3) (a); Section 17 (3) (aa); and, Section 17 (3) (b) of the Act. has been a material b There change since the grant of the licence in that the holder of the licence is no longer fit to hold an operator’s licence under Section 17 (3) (e) of the Act. operator’s licence c The PG1038923 held by Goytre Minibus Services Ltd is revoked with effect from 23.59 hours on March 4, 2012.

Watkins is d Stephen disqualified from applying for or holding an operator’s licence in any traffic area for a period of three years from the revocation of this licence, under Section 28 of the Transport Act 1985.

Hughes is e Stephen disqualified from applying for or holding an operator’s licence in any traffic area for a period of six months from the revocation of this licence, under Section 28 of the Transport Act 1985.

Judge Brodrick in Fenton 2006/277: “It has been said on many occasions that trust is one of the foundation stones of operator licensing. Traffic Commissioners must be able to trust operators to comply with all the relevant laws, rules and regulations because it would be a physical and financial impossibility to police every aspect of the licensing system all day and every day. In addition operators must be able to trust other operators to observe the relevant laws, rules and regulations.

If trust between operators breaks down and some operators believe that others are obtaining an unfair commercial advantage by ignoring laws, rules or regulations then standards will inevitably slip and the public will suffer.”

c

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TECHNOLOGY › VOLVO BUS

Social Media at Volvo Bus David Elathan talks about how social media is driving Volvo Bus into the 21st Century by opening up new and unexplored communication channels

S

ocial Media, once solely the domain of University students and College graduates, has now diversified and evolved to become one of the single most interesting business tools of the 21st Century.

Volvo Bus has always been regarded as a manufacturing innovator, reinforced by their recent hybrid bus developments, but is also now leading the way in harnessing Social Media technology for modern business.

Facebook took MySpace’s crown as king of the Social Media platforms back in 2006 and ever since then the interface has grown exponentially. Recent figures estimate Facebook’s total monthly active user database to be over 800 million people, which makes it larger than many countries.

Twitter has also been widely opted by media and news outlets, throughout the world, as a viable source of gathering and sharing information. Considerably smaller in comparative terms to Facebook, Twitter has an estimated 175 million monthly active users, but appears to have a significantly growing influence.

Volvo Bus, in co-operation with their Solihull-based, full service PR and marketing, agency NC Creative, implemented a wide scale Social Media plan back in 2010.

This aimed to ensure that Volvo interacted with their key customer base, trade journalists and other interested participants on a daily basis across an array of platforms.

The Volvo Bus Corporation Facebook page now has 5,520 people who “Like” the page.

It is updated with Volvo Bus

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Don Johnston, Marketing Manager at Volvo Bus, supports social media Corporation information, offers and promotions on a regular basis.

Many of the fans, particularly those based in the UK and Ireland also post their photos of recent coach purchases – helping to demonstrate Volvo’s product offering to a world wide audience.

Twitter was a completely new field for Volvo Bus in the UK back in 2010, but the company’s official Twitter page has now accumulated over 500 followers. Significantly, many of these followers are trade journalists and operators.

How Volvo uses social media

Volvo post updates several times a day, on a variety of topics such as new orders, used vehicle information, servicing and parts, as well as current promotions.

The company even offers advice and particularly enjoys engaging with other Twitter users, making full use of retweets. Because of the immediacy of Twitter, Volvo Bus uses it to pass on information to its followers such as substantial road closures, new services, weather warnings and even coach parking

restrictions.

Raising awareness of media coverage in relevant trade publications is another area which Twitter facilitates. This works extremely well when the publication and operator featured have their own Twitter IDs. Whilst Volvo believes it is doubtful social media will ever replace the traditional methods of correspondence, what it has done is create a new communication channel, whereby Volvo Bus can interact with a 21st Century audience.

Images and videos are also posted on Twitter with links to guide the online audience to current topics of interest. To stream their videos Volvo Bus has also created a dedicated YouTube channel, which despite only being launched midway through last year and still in the development phase has already attained over 2,500 views. Further plans are also in place to expand on this particular technology in the coming months.

Last year Volvo Bus also created a dedicated eBay page, whereby used vehicles have been posted on trial basis to understand the potential level of demand on that platform.

The vehicles which were posted have been sold, so there are already plans in place to make wider scale use of the eBay page during 2012.

The immediacy of Social Media, whether it is Facebook, YouTube or Twitter, allows events such as the major coach and bus exhibition to be covered. Video footage, live from the Volvo Bus stand was posted to the sites allowing people to become involved even if they were unable to visit the exhibition.

Similarly, video footage of the new vehicle launches can

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TECHNOLOGY › VOLVO BUS Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek be uploaded on the day, bringing news of events, as they happen.

Volvo’s involvement in the current Volvo Ocean Race also produces a significant amount of Social Media traffic and will continue to do so across all platforms. Across Twitter, while the race is ongoing, there are frequent updates and even activity while the boats put into ports on the various legs around the globe. Expect a surge in activity as the race comes to a close in Gallway this July.

Other recent Social Media interactions have also seen correspondence with current Volvo specifying operators as well as interest in used Volvo Bus vehicles by operators previously specifying other manufacturers.

“The interactions we’ve seen over the last year or so and the developments we’ve put in place fully justify the use of this exciting technology,” explained Volvo Bus Marketing Manager, Don Johnston.

The future

Volvo’s got an app for that: Volvo’s latest launch has seen the introduction of a highly informative communications vehicle – the Volvo Bus and Coach App. The new ‘free to download’ iPhone App has been specifically developed to further enhance bus and coach operators’ interaction with Volvo Bus. It features a continuous news and social media feed, enabling the company’s latest information updates to be viewed through mobile phones.

“Using new technologies, in every shape or form, to support increased operating efficiencies are a key part of Volvo’s commitment to the business partnership with our customers,” said Steve Dewhurst, Volvo Bus UK Managing Director. “The new App places a wealth of information at our customers’ finger tips, which will prove beneficial in their daily operations.

“Volvo has always been synonymous with cutting edge technology in terms of vehicles and their safety features and through the launch of this App, we continue to also drive the market forward with our communications.”

The handheld information tool provides a clear overview of Volvo’s extensive product range, including detailed, individual vehicle specifications. This allows operators to compare and consider the different vehicle

options available in the UK and Irish markets at their leisure. Pre-owned vehicles can also easily be sourced and viewed via the Used Bus and Coach Finder facility within the App. A sophisticated built in Dealer Locator makes use of location services to allow operators to find directions to their nearest dealer across the extensive Volvo network.

Data on Volvo’s new telematics offering, special promotions, parts supply and soft products options are also built in to the Aftermarket section of the App. There is also a dedicated news feed delivering the latest information on the Volvo Ocean Race, making sure users are fully aware of the latest developments ahead of the race completion in Gallway in July.

Steve Dewhurst continued: “Our new App is the ideal vehicle for operators, journalists and industry stakeholders to keep up to date with our latest developments and its interactive features will, alongside our significant presence on social media sites, further encourage a direct, on-going dialogue with our customers.”

The new App has initially been developed exclusively for iPhone use, with the iOS 5 operating system. It is free to download and available from the Apple App Store.

“Twitter has become an increasingly powerful marketing tool enabling an instant response to news and developments,” continued Don. “As a result we can communicate the latest industry news direct to our customers on a different level. We realise social media isn’t going to be for everyone, but equally the next generation of coach operators and owners are growing up with this technology, so it would be remiss of us to ignore it.

“We’ve obviously got our well established and active Facebook and Twitter pages and we have some exciting plans for the development of our YouTube channel coming soon,” continued Don Johnston. In addition we’ve seen some considerable success with sales from our eBay trials with some of our used vehicles, so we’ll also be looking to extend the use of that medium over the next few months.”

You can become a fan of the Volvo Bus Corporation Facebook page by visiting http:// www.facebook.com/Volvobus ■ You can follow @VolvoBusUK on Twitter or you can visit http:// twitter.com/VolvoBusUK ■ You can view the Volvo Bus UK YouTube page by visiting http:// www.youtube.com/VolvoBusUK ■ Visit the Volvo Bus UK website at www.volvobuses.com/bus/uk/ en-gb

Some screenshots from Volvo’s App, which has integration with social media and mapping technology

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manufacturer update › BMC

BMC poised for expansion – Integral bus bodies are moved around on dollies running on inset floor rails

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Martin Cole visits BMC’s Izmir plant in Turkey as the CV manufacturer gears up towards a major expansion

n – at home and abroad

B

MC, the former British Motor Company sold to Turkish buyers in the late 1960s, currently holds a 40% share of its home market and is gearing up to increase its presence elsewhere.

The UK market is no exception and now the import of BMC’s bus and coach products has switched to Pelican Engineering of Castleford The manufacturer has far more confidence its customers can be assured of aftermarket support.

Part of the Cukurova Group, BMC Sanayi ve Ticaret is based in Izmir on Turkey’s west coast. The main Izmir plant has two satellite production units located within a few miles – one specifically geared to building buses and coaches. The main site concentrates on truck production but is also the base for its foundry and casting division, machining, engine assembly and its pressings – which range from body panels to chassis rails. The press area contains a monster press which delivers 3,500 tonnes and can form chassis rails in a single operation.

The foundry is key part of BMC’s operation and its main throughput is casting cylinder blocks and heads for Cummins engines – which it has built under licence since 1984.

The bulk of the engines produced are used in BMC’s own vehicles but it markets excess production to other vehicle builders. The division also produces flywheels in great quantity and brake drums, currently supplying 20% of the global flywheel requirement for Cummins. BMC is in negotiation with Cummins to increase its output and take the figure to nearer 50%. Additionally, it still produces the original BMC 1.8 litre engine – although this is largely to maintain a supply of spare parts for existing users – including a large proportion of canal boat owners in the UK – among others.

As BMC’s production quality and technical ability

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manufacturer update › BMC

Above: A completed ProCity for an Istanbul operator. Below: Casting a Cummins engine block. Below Right: PLS ACcess passenger lift has achieved new levels, the company was able to move on from producing Euro 2 compliant engines to building Euro 4 specification models when Turkey moved suddenly to the higher level – skipping Euro 3 completely. It is now building engines to Euro 4 Plus specification and is preparing to move up to Euro 5 in the second half of this year. The current range includes four and six cylinder B Series engines and the 320bhp ISL. Having seen an urgent need for expansion and development of its facilities through being unable to produce enough vehicles to meet demand, BMC purchased a new site 30km north of Izmir just before the global downturn in the economy. The resulting decline in sales put the brakes on immediate development other than to create a testing environment and associated facilities for BMC military vehicles.

However, work is planned to start very soon on the 1.2m square metre site and will begin with the construction of a new bus and coach building factory.

Chief Executive Turgut Cancilic said the current output was between 4,000-5,000 trucks per year and 700-800 buses plus 8,00010,000 engines. The company had theoretical capacity for 1,500 buses per year but its best ever performance had been 1,100.

This was now insufficient to meet forward orders and the new facility www.coachandbusweek.com

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is aimed at allowing production of up to 4,000 bus and coach units annually. BMC’s strategy, he claimed, was to concentrate on niche sectors because producing a broad, all-encompassing portfolio would bring the company into direct conflict with the ‘Big Six’ manufacturers (MAN, MercedesBenz, Scania, Volvo, DAF and Iveco) and it would be too expensive to compete with them head-to-head.

He admitted although BMC had developed a hybrid bus in conjunction with Siemens, which was launched at Kortrijk in 2011, this was nothing more than a temporary stop-gap on the way to full-electric vehicles. He also favoured CNG development which, he explained, was becoming part of the mix and BMC was well-poised

“On the coach side, growing requirement for increased luggage space from the Spanish market, where the Karisma is a popular option, means integral versions are now coming on stream.”

to take advantage with a range of power options from Cummins Westport. Other options, he felt needed consideration too and manufacturers would want access to a range of power choices – giving them the flexibility to switch power types to suit customer requirements.

BMC has CNG fuelled buses operating successfully in the Turkish capital Ankara. Pelican Engineering is eager to get one into the UK to begin demonstrations and currently engaged in talks with potential gas suppliers. Pelican is proposing to bring a CNG ProCity to the NEC show later this year.

No brand new models were announced during the visit to Turkey but some significant changes to existing models are under way. Bus models have already begun a transition from body-onchassis build processes to integral construction. The mark II version of the Hawk midibus is a case in point and it is also being equipped with the six cylinder Cummins instead of the four cylinder unit and is to have a ZF EcoLife six-speed automatic gearbox. The Hawk is also resisting a change to full multiplexed electronics. BMC says it is not necessary for some customers who prefer simplicity.

On the coach side, growing requirement for increased luggage space from the Spanish market, where the Karisma is a popular

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek

Above: Galvanised and Stainless bodies on the same line. Above right: Body enters spray preparation zone option, means integral versions are now coming on stream. This will eventually feed through to all markets for Karisma – including the UK. It is unlikey the Midilux will follow suit. Formerly called Nifty, Midilux has a dedicated BMC chassis and was bodied for BMC

by Bursa. The bodybuilder has now fallen victim to the economic downturn and so Midilux is to be built in-house at BMC.

Bus plant

During a tour of the Izmir bus building plant it was clear the manufacturer is pressed for space, but it seems somewhat secondary to the undoubted logistics nightmare it faces in getting materials to the plant and completed vehicles away from the nightmare of Turkish city traffic combined with narrow streets.

Moving everything to a new location outside Izmir and with direct access to a major ring road will seem nothing short of heaven.

The plant itself is very traditional and somewhat dated with body frames being assembled as they progress along the production lines. Rails have been laid in the floor to facilitate the movement of body frames on transport dollies.

Axles, suspension and wheels are not mounted until after the assembled unit exits the paint shop.

Much of the frame construction is now contracted to outside

BMCTurkey.indd 31

manufacturers using BMC-owned and supplied jigs.

The ProCity lines contained three basic versions of the same vehicle, in-build at the same time.

Some were basic ProCity versions for a private operator contracted to run services in Istanbul. These all featured galvanised steel frames and full floor to waist one-piece stretched side panel.

The alternatives were being built in stainless steel and featured individual aluminium side panels enabling any damaged segment to be simply removed and replaced.

These buses were for IETT – Istanbul’s municipal operation.

Some of the models (the ProCity 340K) in the construction line-up

were the new articulated version which BMC showed at Busworld Turkey – which took place the same week as the press visit to BMC. These articulated examples carry up to 157 passengers with 43 seated, the rest standing. They are powered by a 320bhp Cummins ISL engine with a ZF automatic gearbox.

Articulated ProCity buses currently operate in Izmir and Istanbul.

Condor, which has been a fully integral 12m bus for some time, is still seen as having potential as a school bus in the UK. It is being offered with lighter, moulded plastic seating option which is said to save 500kg and allow an increase from 43/45 passengers to 57.

A promised development of the

Engine and gearbox assemblies awaiting installation

Karisma for the UK market is a wheelchair accessible version. One of these, albeit a left-hand drive model for Spain, was seen under construction. The access door is on the nearside, between the wheels.

A PLS Access passenger lift has been developed for the application and Karisma now has four quicklyremovable/replaceable seats adjacent to the door to create sufficient space for a wheelchair.

The cassette-mounted PLS lift was seen later during a visit to Busworld Turkey.

BMC did not get a great start in the UK market but the recent structural changes and appointment of Pelican Engineering look set to provide operators with what they need – the aftermarket support and backup which allows them to keep the wheels turning with the minimum of disruption.

As a manufacturer, BMC offers extremely good value for money and many will see it as costeffective alternative. There are some undoubted rough edges and some European styling changes would add a higher degree of visual appeal – but the immediate focus for the manufacturer is to be on proving the BMC product offers UK operators a value-for-money, reliable and profitable option.

Pelican Engineeing undoubtedly has some bridges to build but is already having great success in winning back customer loyalty. www.coachandbusweek.com

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THE BIG PICTURE

This ‘back to the future’ scene was caught on camera by Editor Gareth Evans at the UK Coach Rally in Peterborough on Saturday April 21, 2012. It shows an iconic Routemaster alongside its modern day equivalent. The New Bus for London is often referred to as the ‘Borismaster’ on account of it being sanctioned by the current Mayor of London. Two have been produced to date. T2 was the first of the duo to enter regular public service with Arriva London on route 38 between Victoria and Hackney. Its sister LT1 (‘LT61AHT’) – the bus pictured here – has been extensively tested in the UK for the required European Whole Vehicle Type Approval process. Also seen here is Routemaster RM1005, owned by London Transport Commissioner Peter Hendy. Withdrawn in 2005 after working on route 13 for Sovereign, it re-entered service on route 9 after being placed on loan to First London. Notably, it was the first RM to go through the Marshall refurbishment programme.

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DELIVERIES

UNO Mistral has supplied Uno Bus with five new 9.5 metre-long Wrightbus Streetlites.

The buses are fitted with Mobitec destination equipment.

Jim Thorpe, Managing Director of Uno, commented: “After an intense market exercise, we have decided to buy 9.5m Wrightbus

Streetlites for our latest order.

The Streetlite demonstrator proved to be very popular with our drivers and passengers alike.

“The level of specification we have, including LED blinds and CCTV means the passenger experience will be further enhanced on our network.”

Two of the Streetlites will operate S1, S2 and S3 in St Albans, the daytime

frequencies of which have been enhanced from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes. The other three new buses will be used primarily on route 615 between Stanmore and Hatfield.

UNO is the University of Hertfordshire’s whollyowned bus company. The company was formed in 1992 as University Bus and relaunched under the trading name of Uno in 2005 to reflect the growing services demanded by the public.

JJ KAVANAGH JJ Kavanagh and Sons has upgraded its Setra fleet for 2012 with four new two-axle S415 GT HD ComfortClass coaches. The vehicles maintain the firm’s position as the leading Irish Setra operator. The vehicles will be used on tours, excursions, private hire and city work.

The double-glazed coaches are built to European

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Wrightbus

Streetlite (integral)

Engine Cummins Euro 5 Transmission Voith Seats 37 Spec 9.5m DoorForward Supplied by

Mistral Bus & Coach PLC 0800 781 4111 www.mistral-group.com

PULHAMS Pulhams Coaches, one of Britain’s longest established bus and coach operators, has taken delivery of its first three MCV-bodied B7RLEs. The Bourton-on-theWater-based operator is no stranger to Volvo, with around 95% of its current fleet built on the Volvo chassis. Pulhams’ three new buses are particularly special as they are the first MCV-bodied vehicles to be delivered to a UK operator, following the announcement of the new partnership between Volvo and MCV. Pulhams Coaches’ Director, Andy Pulham, witnessed the MCV production facility first hand. “Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager Phil Fletcher took me to Egypt to see the

Bus and Coach Directive 2001/85. They feature Nimbus reclining seats, a centre sunken toilet, servery area, Webasto heating, roofmounted air conditioning and a Coach 2000 multi-media system with DVD/CD/public address and two 19-inch flatscreen monitors. There is cruise control, ESP, Brake Assist and EBS. JJ Kavanagh and Sons, Ireland’s largest privately owned coach company,

the same day if required.”

Powered by the rear mounted D7E 7.1-litre in-line, common rail fuel injection engine, the B7RLE combines generous torque and low revs with a robust, lightweight and rigid frame.

Each of Pulhams Coaches’ new buses feature stylish moquette seating, CCTV and an onboard reversing camera.

FACT FILE

Andy Congrave (left), Regional Sales Manager, MCV, oversees the handover with Andy Pulham (centre) and Volvo Bus Regional Sales Manager, Phil Fletcher (right) MCV facility for myself. I have to say I really was impressed, it’s a huge facility and really professionally run.

“I think the finish and styling of the MCV body on the B7RLE is really quite striking and when I know

I’ve also got the reliability and durability of the Volvo chassis underneath, it becomes a really attractive package for us.

“With Volvo you also get the excellent back-up, which is reassuring because these

new B7RLEs will be very busy vehicles – running on the 26-mile 801 route from Moreton-in-Marsh through Bourton-on-the-Water to Cheltenham. With the local Volvo dealership at Wales and West, we can get parts

Chassis/body Volvo B7RLE/

MCV

Engine Volvo D7E 7.1 litre,

290bhp

Transmission Voith Seats 44 Spec CCTV Supplied by

Volvo Bus 02476 210250 www.volvobuses.com/bus/uk/ en-gb/Pages/homepage.aspx

For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:

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Have you taken delivery of a new vehicle and want to tell the world about it?

Email all the details and pictures to cbwinbox@ rouncymedia.co.uk

celabrated 90 years of service in 2009 and is now in the hands of the third generation of the Kavanagh family. The company with its subsidaries operates over 100 vehicles covering all facets of passanger transport.

Alongside the Setra coaches, which form the majority of the fleet, JJ Kavanagh and Sons operates a number of other EvoBus products including Citaro buses and Sprinter minibuses.

FACT FILE

Chassis/body S415 GT HD

ComfortClass (integral)

Engine Mercedes-Benz OM 457

LA 428hp

Transmission Mercedes-

Benz Go240-8 Powershift Seats 51 Spec Touring Supplied by

Evo Bus 02476 626000 www.evobus.co.uk

LUCKETTS Renowned south coast of England coach operator Lucketts has taken delivery of its first pair of DAFpowered Irizar i6 integral coaches.

With each coach having cost £235,000, the large investment comes just in time for the summer season.

The two new arrivals are amongst the first in Britain, and were delivered to Luckett’s in time for the Easter Holidays. They will be used on the firm’s ‘Platinum Tours’ day excursion and holiday programme, as well as other private hire work.

The interior specification includes 53 seats with three-point belts, toilet, Bosch radio/CD/DVD, two LCD monitors and CCTV. Initially while on the holiday

Steve O’Neill of Irizar UK hands over the new coaches to Luckett’s Travel Chairman David Luckett programme the coaches will be configured with 49 seats and upseated to 53 seats for its second life.

Commenting on the new coaches, David Luckett, Chairman of Luckett’s Travel, said: “We have had a longrunning relationship with Irizar going back as far as

1995 andwe currently have 35 Irizars in our fleet, the oldest currently being 1998.

It’s great to be back working with old friends Steve O’Neill and Ian Hall again, good to have some old fashioned relationships in this modern industry.”

Steven Luckett, Joint

Managing Director at Lucketts Travel, added: “By its very nature the coach industry never stops moving, and we’ve always tried to stay ahead of the game. By investing in these new coaches we can continue to offer the highest levels of comfort and quality to our customers, with lower operating costs than older vehicles. It will help us to stay competitive and give great value to our passengers.”

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Irizar i6

(integral)

Engine DAF MX 30012 Transmission ZF ASTronic Seats 49/53 Spec Touring Supplied by

Irizar UK 0190 511349 www.irizar.co.uk

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CV SHOW 2012

1

2

3

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CV Show: waiting for ‘green shoots’ to appear Coach and Bus Week’s Martin Cole and James Day report on news and developments from the Commercial Vehicle Show 2012 at the NEC Birmingham, the UK’s largest transport industry trade show www.coachandbusweek.com

CVShow.indd 36

T

he annual CV Show at Birmingham’s NEC provided visitors with a golden opportunity to get up to date with the latest technology covering all aspects of commercial vehicle operation.

Although one or two of the main manufacturers were missing from the event, the halls were full and it was highly evident from the growth in businesses offering fleet management systems the emphasis is on providing complete and exacting control to minimise running costs.

One encouraging sign was the growth in dedicated financial support for operators seeking to acquire new vehicles. Since the advent of the recession many operators have found it virtually impossible to obtain finance agreements for vehicle or fleet renewal, however Lombard used the CV Show to actively encourage coach and bus operators to make use of its services.

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services is also becoming more widely involved across the truck

and bus sectors. Having established Mercedes-Benz Bank in Germany, the Financial Services arm can now effectively gear its finance deals specifically towards customer requirements, particularly for fleet business and this effectively began to stimulate dwindling sales of vans and trucks. More recently, it has extended its availability through EvoBus and is becoming increasingly active in bus and coach sales with very high acceptance rates of applicants to date.

Vauxhall Vauxhall’s Movano minibus made its public debut over two years after the new model range was launched. It has been a long wait, some 18 months more than originally predicted, but the inhouse model now fills the gap in the range. It offers 16 passenger seats, one beside the driver and 15 in the saloon. It is powered by the 2.3 litre Euro 5 CDTI 16 valve engine, developing 125bhp and has a six-speed manual gearbox.

Saloon access is via the sliding side door and an automatic step. Seating is arranged in a 2+1 layout with the seats mounted on raised floor

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5

6 1: Stanford Coachworks VW Crafter on Webasto’s stand. 2: Mobil Delvac synthetic transmission and engine oils offer 4.6% fuel saving.

3: Vauxhall’s new Movano minibus features 16 seats plus driver.

4: Treka Bus 16-seat Sprinter with composite bodywork.

5: Renault Traffic Sport with nine seats. 6: Mellor Coachcraft Sprinter Accessible. 7: Wide access door to the new Ford Tourneo Custom saloon. 8: Ford’s new Tourneo Custom concept design was first launched in Geneva

7 sections which create a sunken gangway effect for the aisle – which remains at original floor level. A full length parcel rack is installed on the offside and a shorter one, to clear the sliding entrance door, is installed on the nearside. Both incorporate passenger sets for lighting and ventilation. LED lighting strips provide internal illumination.

Movano has a GVW of 3,900kg and payload of 1,377kg. Vauxhall is currently offering a three year or 100,000 miles warranty. Service intervals are every 25,000 miles.

The same terms apply to its smaller sibling, the Vivaro, which was also shown its 9-seat Combi form on the LWB platform. The Vivaro Combi featured a 115bhp 2.0 litre engine and six-speed manual gearbox. It has a GVW of 2,900kg and payload of 1,086kg.

Fiat Professional Fiat Professional placed a Ducato minibus outside the main show entrance to catch the attention of visitors and displayed an eightseat Scudo for Aston Villa on its exhibition stand. Powered by a 2.0 litre 16 valve Multijet 165 engine.

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8 Typically supplied as either an eight or nine-seat shuttle, the Scudo has a GVW of 1.948kg or 1,959kg respectively. Payload for the eight model is 455kg and 375kg for the nine-seater.

ALKO Chassis specialist ALKO displayed the Type-Approved lowfloor Mellor Coachraft Fiat Ducato minibus on its stand. The company said it was still engaged in ongoing development of the chassis in conjunction with Mellor and was refining it by degrees. Last year ALKO introduced a low-framed hybrid chassis which stimulated considerable interest but it is currently only being developed in Europe for motorhome application.

Renault Renault’s new LM39 Master minibus was shown alongside a high-specification nine-seat example of the Trafic. Since the Master’s inaugural appearance last year it has undergone a number of specification changes but visually appears no different. It is powered by the DCi 125 engine with a six-speed manual gearbox but the

automated transmission is also an option. Renault also displayed its LWB Trafic LL29 in ‘Sport’ guise with a distinctive set of alloy wheels to enhance its appearance and a number other enhancements from the traditional option list fitted as standard. It featured the 2.0 litre DCi 115 engine and six-speed manual gearbox.

Ford Ford launched its new one-tonne Transit Custom which also forms the base for the Tourneo - first revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. The new Tourneo shared centre stage with the Custom on a revolving display – which unfortunately made it inaccessible.

However, the new Tourneo Custom certainly has a dynamic appearance and great kerb-appeal besides an attractive and comfortable-looking passenger environment which looks set to make it a popular choice in this class of vehicle.

Eberspacher According to tradition, heating and climate control specialist Eberspacher hosted a collection of minibuses from a selection of

its key customers. These included Bluebird’s lowfloor Orion, based on a Fiat Ducato. The model shown was one of the community transport specification versions with 16 seats, opening rear doors and a fold-out wheelchair ramp. It was shown in the colours of HCT Group although it is not actually one of the vehicles currently on order. HCT Group does have Bluebird Tucana models on order but these were not finished in time for the show. MD Rob Miller said rather than let HCT Group down after promising to display one of its vehicles, Bluebird added the company’s decals to what is actually the new Bluebird demonstration vehicle. Rob Miller also indicated there had been some interest in the Orion from Europe and Bluebird is currently considering the production of a left-hand drive version.

Mellor Coachcraft displayed its 16-seat/six wheelchair accessible Mercedes-Benz Sprinter alongside a similar capacity VW Crafter from Euromotive. Stanford Coachworks presented a Sprinter with 14-seat/ five wheelchair capacity and Ricon internal lift which

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is one of a batch for vehicle hire company Burnt Tree.

Treka Bus highlighted its Sprinter-based Treka which features a composite body. It seats up to 16 passengers or can accommodate up to six wheelchairs – the same as the final exhibitor – Northern Ireland’s Nu-Track. Based on an Irisbus Daily the Coachbuilt Nu-Track has a spacious flat floored saloon. The company said it had been well-received at the show and had enjoyed some very positive discussions with local authority representatives – particularly London Boroughs.

Eberspächer, celebrating 35 years of successful trading in the UK, introduced the Hydronic 2 Commercial water heater, which is more efficient, quieter and easier to install. It also announced enhanced aftercare through a Total Life Care (TLC) package and highlighted new air conditioning workshop equipment from Wigham.

Vince Lee Eberspächer MD, said: “We have been serving the UK vehicle, bodybuilders, marine and construction equipment sector for 35 years. To celebrate we are expanding our product portfolio and further improving the service we offer our many UK customers. These moves will enable Eberspächer to continue its policy of steady and sustainable growth in the UK, which is one of the most important markets for the company worldwide.”

Hydronic 2 offers lower cost of operation, efficient operation in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Centigrade, easier in-vehicle installation and greater versatility, quieter operation and a longer operating/service life. Available in 12 or 24 volt formats, Hydronic 2 has a high heat output, of up to 4.8kW, high (84%) efficiency levels and long, up to 5,000 hours, operating life. It has compact dimensions, good accessibility for diagnostic purposes and 100% biodiesel compatibility to ensure complete versatility of installation and in-service practicality.

In addition to its thermostatic control, it has three selectable heat settings. Its 1.2 kW low output setting enables it to run for long periods, without the device constantly switching itself on and off when the temperature drops below a specific level. This maintains a constant, comfortable temperature throughout the night without disturbing the crew and www.coachandbusweek.com

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2 1: Eight-seat Fiat Scudo for Aston Villa. 2: Suzzanah Robin with the Alcodigital’s Lab in a Bag and keyholding safe. 3: Ratcliff’s preproduction internal lift. 4: Minibus Lite from GM Coachwork – 17 seats and under 3.5t GVW

1

3 also reducing power and fuel consumption.

The new Total Life Care package, provided through an extensive UK/ Eire dealer network, promises a ‘one call’ service to Eberspächer’s dedicated After Sales team which ensures a trained Eberspächer engineer is available to attend to any service issues.It extends to manufacturer-supported maintenance schemes or extended warranty packages for fixed vehicle life service andmaintenance costs.

TLC starts from the first enquiry, to the delivery and installation of the equipment using trained installers and extends to cover the end user. This means all vehicle bodybuilders and suppliers can relax in the knowledge Eberspächer UK continues to have its customer’s requirements covered for the life of the equipment.

Now appointed as the UK distributor for the Wigam range of air conditioning workshop equipment Eberspächer displayed the Piccola Data automatic charging machine; Total Test A/C leak detecting system (which uses Azoidro, a new gas which seeks out very small leaks which often

4 elude leak detectors using R134a refrigerant; and Discovery Leak Detector, which is compatible with R1234yf refrigerant used in new vehicle air conditioning systems, as well as the traditional R134a refrigerant. Flash-Flush, a small portable flushing device which cleans the A/C system following the failure of an internal component was also displayed alongside the Fox Evo digital manifold set which is designed for service engineers workshop-based and mobile.

Webasto This year saw rival heating and climate control manufacturer Webasto employing a copycat of the Eberspacher show model with another collection of minibuses.

These included a Bluebird Orion for Nottinghamshire County Council, a Stanford Coachworksbuilt accessible VW Crafter for London Hire, a Peugeot Boxer converted by GM Coachwork which was advertised as available with 16 or 17 seats and weighing in at under 3.5t – allowing it to be driven on a car licence. The display was rounded off by an accessible Sprinter conversion from Oughtred

& Harrison.

Webasto highlighted the simplicity of its new climate control system which takes advantage of plug-and-play capability. The company says installations were previously hampered by complex and copious wiring to numerous external relays. The latest Webasto system comprises a smart LCD screen display/control panel, a compact and fully integrated electronic control unit and an externally mounted air temperature sensor. These units combine the output of Webasto’s current range of Air Top interior diesel heaters with either its aftermarket split air or roof mount air conditioning units.

Eminox Growing incidences of exhaust catalyst theft has prompted exhaust and filtration specialist Eminox to launch the TruckMinder theft deterrent to protect these valuable systems. Thousands of units are stolen every year creating a serious issue for vehicle owners who face costs for not only replacement systems, but also any additional repair costs to the vehicle and

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May 2, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 39

unscheduled downtime.

TruckMinder protects the entire DPF unit and battery. It is specifically designed for catalysts and DPF systems and uses the latest microcontroller technology.

A sensor is fitted to the DPF and any attempt to cut or short circuit the cables, or to disconnect the battery, triggers a high decibel alarm. Fitting a GSM autodialling modem is optional, but gives the added benefit of sending theft alert text messages to assigned mobile phones. False alarms are prevented as the unique patented sensor recognises and rejects normal nonthreatening events.

Energenics Energenics Europe, producer of nanotechnology fuel additive Envirox, reported a high level of interest in its new DPF Assist.

Envirox was adopted by Stagecoach in 2005 and has been taken up by others since.

Regular Envirox is mainly targeted at saving fuel and is

usually supplied in drum quantities to bus depots where it is injected into bulk diesel fuel. At higher dose levels the active cerium oxide nanocatalyst in Envirox performs as an effective Fuel Borne Catalyst (FBC) in assisting the regeneration of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs).

It works in two ways: by decreasing the level of soot particles produced during combustion by up to 18% and then significantly lowering the temperature the exhaust gases need to reach to burn off the trapped soot particles in the DPF. Operational problems with DPFs related to premature blocking continue to be reported, particularly in slow urban driving cycles like London traffic where the exhaust gases do not reach the necessary temperature for a sufficient part of the operating cycle to regenerate the filter. Coach operators who have purchased DPFs to comply with the latest requirements of the London Low Emission Zone can be in a difficult

situation. Even in the absence of actual blocking problems, fuel economy tends to worsen because the engine has to work against the back pressure caused by soot build up in the exhaust system.

Envirox DPF Assist is a new formulation developed specifically to address these issues. As well as the core nano-catalyst it includes a strong dose of the detergent additive chemistry used by premium fuel retailers to clean fuel injectors and preserve optimal spray patterns. It is supplied in a convenient 500ml bottle with a 25 ml dispensing chamber which is well matched to the dosing recommendations. As such it is affordable and can be used to treat the individual vehicles in the fleet which will benefit most. The two main ways of using it are; On an occasional basis to assist with a DPF that is already showing signs of blockage – this requires 2 x 25ml measures for 50 litres of diesel fuel.

All the time to combat potential

future blockages and achieve enhanced fuel economy – this requires one 25 ml measure for 50 litres of diesel fuel.

Energenics offers it in concentrated form which represents excellent value to operators. Several DPF Cleaner products have begun to appear in the workshop and retail trade but these are ‘single shot’ treatments for one tank where the active FBC ingredient has been diluted. If used all the time, one 500 ml bottle of Envirox DPF Assist will treat 1000 litres of diesel and more than pay for itself by delivering fuel savings approximately equal to double its cost.

Mobil Delvac Independent testing at Millbrook on Volvo and Iveco vehicles has recently demonstrated Mobil Delvac commercial vehicle lubricants deliver significant fuel economy benefits.

Average fuel economy improvement of 4.7% was realised in an Iveco

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CV SHOW 2012

Eurocargo vehicle under city driving conditions, while an average fuel economy saving of 2.85% was achieved in a Volvo articulated truck.

These fuel economy benefits have the potential for fleet operators to achieve considerable financial savings as well as reduce vehicle emissions. The company says changing from mineral-based products to Mobil Delvac synthetic lubricants means further cost savings can be achieved through enhanced engine protection and extended oil drain intervals.

Independent fuel economy evaluations were conducted using two Volvo FM 440 Series Euro V trucks, loaded to 75% Gross Vehicle Weight (circa 33 tonnes) and two Iveco Eurocargo 75E16 EEV Euro 5 trucks, loaded to 50% Gross Vehicle Weight (circa 6.2 tonnes).

Mobil Delvac 1 LE 5W-30 was used in the engine and Mobilube 1 SHC 75W-90 was used in the rear axle for both vehicles, with Mobilube 1 SHC 75W-90 and Mobil Delvac Synthetic Transmission Oil V30 used in the transmissions of the Iveco and Volvo trucks respectively.

Statistically significant fuel economy benefits were observed when comparing the performance of these synthetic lubricants to mineral products.

Mobil Delvac said further testing had achieved a 4.9% reduction in fuel consumption using a DAF truck. Taking an average across all its results to date, the reduction is 4.6%. It is also keen to become established in the bus and coach industry and would like to engage in evaluation trials with potential customers.

FTA The Freight Transport Association was highlighting its current campaign for assessing and certifying engineering staff and technicians with irtec Inspection Technician Licences.

FTA’s head of automotive, Lawrie Alford, said investing in the scheme would give operators peace of mind their engineers were qualified and competent in running a safe and compliant operation while improving overall workshop efficiency. It also gave operators a clear picture of their engineers’ capabilities through impartial and independent assessment.

Additionally, the move had the potential to improve the Operator Compliance Risk Score – helping www.coachandbusweek.com

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to avoid fines or penalties. All the assessments can be carried out at an operators’ own site for complete convenience.

FTA also runs courses for specialist vehicle inspection training which are designed to assist vehicle inspectors to accurately identify defects, make wear and tear assessments and comprehensively evaluate vehicles.

Another module is designed for Operator Licence Awareness Training which is aimed at transport staff to help them gain a better understanding of operator licensing and to develop an active role in ensuring legal competence within their organisation. Details can be found at www.fta.co.uk/irtec

TomTom Business Solutions TomTom Business Solutions reported keen interest in its integrated WorkSmart package which combines vehicle navigation and tracking with communications and reporting facilities to deliver a complete fleet management system.

Marketing Manager Irvine Gray said: “It was clear all our visitors were very keen to save on fuel. We had excellent footfall on the stand and have a large number of high quality enquiries to follow up after the show.”

The latest TomTom navigation system has been incorporated into satnav devices for commercial vehicles – which take into account the weight, length, width and height to ensure routes are not offered which would mean the driver encountered a low bridge, a weight restriction or an unsuitably narrow road. The latest mapping takes account of live traffic flow data combined with historic data for particular roads at certain times of the day and plans its routes to give the user the fastest ‘reliable’ route along with an accurate ETA. This means vehicle are less likely to be stood in queues of traffic, therefore reducing fuel wastage and unnecessary emissions. Live vehicle tracking ensures management can see immediately where vehicles are located and the management suite allows full analysis of operational movement.

Ratcliff Palfinger Ratcliff unveiled a pre-production prototype of its new internal passenger lift which has been developed for smaller vehicles with a floor height of no more than 700mm. It takes into account the

1 1: Bluebird’s accessible version of Orion Plus on the Eberpacher stand. 2: Novadata offered a free 30-day trial of tachograph analysis.

3: Bradbury’s unique ‘hybrid’ lift provides easier access for maintenance staff working beneath

2

3 need for a longer ‘throw’ when deploying in order to clear the larger rear bumper units now fitted.

The lift features a unique automatic platform folding mechanism with integrated guards and selflocating hand rails. The complete assembly, when stowed is secure and rattle-free. It is ideally suited to conversions based on the Vito and Vivaro down to the smaller Fiat Doblo-sized vehicles increasingly used for motability.

AA Drivetech AA Drivetec said the majority of its driver CPC training was being performed through visits, with less of it involving drivers travelling to their site.

It estimates half a million HGV and PCV drivers still need to begin their training, with 62,000 having completed it. Approximately 220,000 have started the process.

AlcoDigital AlcoDigital’s latest product is a keyholding safe with an attached breathalyser. The safe only unlocks if the driver passes the breath test, denying a potential drink driver from even gaining access to the keys. The product should be very useful when staff start work in the early hours, when it is less likely someone will be around to perform random tests.

Suzzanah Robin, Director, said: We’ve been developing the safe over the last month and a half to generate feedback from the industry. So far it’s been very positive. It should be in our next catalogue and will be on the market as soon as there are orders for it.”

Also on show was the ‘Lab in a Bag,’ a device which tests for multiple drug types in a users system, before giving a printout.

Suzzanah added: “The Lab in a

30/04/2012 22:14

Bag has seen some interest in the coach and bus industry. Travel de Courcey purchased the product after seeing it at the NEC last year and there’s been some interest from a number of local authorities, including Oxford.

“Both these products are great for operators chasing school contracts, as they are proof you are taking passenger safety seriously.”

Bradbury Bradbury had a 25 tonne capacity hybrid lift on display. A relatively new development, the hybrid is a combination of scissor and pillar lifts designed to use up as little unnecessary space as possible. The four legs bend inwards, making them easier to get by than rigid vertical beams, while the lack of a scissor mechanism under the platform allows users to walk beneath them unimpeded.

The platform alignment control device can be located away from the lift, somewhere out of the way, and is designed to make it physically impossible for the platforms to move out of alignment. A cylinder volumetric flow divider master/ slave system in the control unit gives maximum stability, while a mechanical torsion bar keeps the four cylinders in line, so even if there is a leak in one of them, the malfunctioning leg will not cause the lift to lose height.

i-Vision The i-Vision, partners of Isuzu, showed the Mimamori telematics system.

Highly popular in the Far East, with 40,000 commercial vehicles using it in Japan and growing userbases in Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia, it focuses on driver training.

The system places tips beneath data displays indicating how driving can be improved and communicates in real time. It also tracks fleet movements at all times, sending alerts when a vehicle crosses a geofence and colour coding vehicles based on overbraking, speed and idling time, amongst other things.

Tim Hicks, General Manager at i-Vision, said: “Many fleet operators are reluctant to invest in telematics systems because they are concerned the company may go down and they will lose all the support. However, our partnership with Isuzu means you can be certain we are in for the long haul and the system is kept up to date.”

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MiX Telematics MiX Telematics’ ran seminars focused on partnerships helping operators to save money.

Alan Johnson, Commercial Manager, said: “We’ve extended the reach of telematics beyond fuel efficiency to help operators save money in other areas.

“Towergate Insurance use MiX Telematics data to assess risk of incident. If the data they receive shows high driving standards it can drive premiums down. So far we’ve seen reductions in premiums of up to 20%.

“Euroway is a leasing company using data to understand how to reduce wear and tear. Where successful, the leasing rates can be lowered.

“Roadscan helps reduce accident costs. It is a forward facing camera which saves the previous 15 seconds of data to a hard drive when an impact is detected. An instant alert is sent to the Fleet Manager, allowing the claims management process to begin. It can save a fortune in inaccurate or faudulent claims.”

Operators have used MiX Telematics data to deliver incentive schemes where a prize goes to the driver with the best fuel savings.

Novadata Novadata was handing out free 30 day trials of Tachotek software. It keeps track of digital tachograph data and clearly displays any infringements. It has no subscription fee – just one £80 payment or £480 to run it on up to 100 machines. Software updates are free. It includes a card reader to allow easy data access, as well as a download key attached via USB.

Tachosys Tachosys revealed a prototype system displaying tachograph information through Android smartphones. It monitors drivers hours in real time, displaying the time since break and current break.

The pro version of the software also shows summary data and can download the tachograph mass memory through use of a company card.

The system may be ready by the end of the year, with the focus remaining with Android for now due to the ease with which applications can be uploaded to the Android app store compared to the other, more regulated app stores like those seen on the iPhone.

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LEGAL update

In association with

Online VAT returns

In order to clean the required 15 rooms a day, the claimants claimed they only took a 30-minute break rather than the hour they were contractually entitled to

EAT rules on overtime Employees required to cooperate with overtime requests but not entitled to payment In Blair and ors v Hotel Solutions London Ltd (HSL) the Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has upheld a tribunal’s decision in which a group of employees were not entitled to paid overtime under their contracts.

The EAT rejected the argument which states a requirement to work overtime can arise merely because an employee is asked to do more work than can be accomplished within their normal working day.

The claimants’ contracts expressly stated overtime was voluntary but also required them to co-­operate if HSL Ltd required them to work overtime at short notice. In order to clean the required 15 rooms a day, the claimants claimed they only took a 30-minute break rather than the hour they were contractually entitled to. They subsequently brought unlawful deduction from wages claims for the non-payment of overtime relating to the half-hour per day

they worked in their breaks.

At a case management discussion, HSL Ltd stated if the claimants were unable to finish their work in time, they could say so and go home – any additional hours worked were voluntary. The employment judge found HSL Ltd had discouraged the claimants from saying they were unable to clean the requisite 15 rooms, so they tended to stay and clean without any extra pay. However, he rejected the argument which maintained, as the claimants were in practice required to work overtime, they should be paid for it. The claimants would be eligible for overtime pay only if they were expressly required

by HSL Ltd to work additional hours as per their contracts of employment. As this did not occur, the claims were dismissed. The claimants appealed, arguing a requirement to work overtime can arise where an employee is asked to do more work than can be accomplished within their normal working day. The EAT rejected the appeal on the basis the requirement

to co-operate could not limit the express condition in the claimants’ contracts that overtime is voluntary.

The claimants were trying to turn the requirement for co­operation into a general requirement to work overtime, which is not what their contracts provided.

Although the claimants could not complete the amount of work they were asked to do in a day without working in their breaks, there was no evidence to suggest that they had been compelled to do so. Their evidence, which was rejected by the employment judge, simply amounted to a generalised complaint regarding they had been unable to take their contractual break.

The decision almost coincides with ‘Work Your Proper Hours Day’, a TUC campaign which claims February 24 is the day on which the average person who does unpaid overtime finishes the year’s unpaid days and starts earning for themselves. The campaign suggests employers received £29.2bn of free work last year alone.

Backhouse Jones acts for clients in the private and public sector, both national and international operators from one to several thousand vehicles. Backhouse is absolutely “industry specific”. Whilst the company can trace its heritage to 1819 it only represented it’s first Road Transport Operator in 1930.

The explanation for this is that the first transport act was only introduced in 1930.The Independent Chambers Guide 2009 describes Backhouse Jones Limited as a specialist company with a national reputation for “first class strength, experience and understanding of the transport industry”. n Contact 01254 828300. Visit www.backhousejones.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalUpdate.indd 42

From April 1 2012, mandatory online filing of VAT has been extended.

Hitherto only businesses with an annual turnover of £100,000 or more had to file VAT returns online.

All VAT registered businesses now need to file VAT returns online for VAT accounting periods for this tax year.

Exceptions to mandatory online filing include individuals who are subject to certain insolvency procedures and those whose religious beliefs are incompatible with the use of electronic communications.

Individuals who are required to file returns online will only be liable to a penalty for failure to file online for accounting periods ending before or after March 31, 2013.

Also, if a VAT is required to be paid electronically, the VAT payable to HM Revenue and Customs must also be paid electronically.

Judges on Unfair Dismissal Cases

The draft Employment Tribunals Act 1996 Composition Order 2012 has been published, and came into force on April 6, 2012. It enables Employment Judges to sit alone in unfair dismissal cases. This change is all part of the process of speeding up and reducing the cost of the tribunal system.

Statutory, Maternity and Paternity Pay Increases

Maternity, paternity, adoption pay, maternity allowance and additional paternity increased from £128.73 to £135.45 and statutory sick pay from £81.60 to £85.85 as of April 9, 2012.

30/04/2012 21:03

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DRIVERS

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Send your driver news and stories to james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk or call 01733 293 240.

NCT drivers receive accolade The drivers were chosen based on their attendance and driving Nottingham City Transport has announced the joint winners of its latest Seasonal Driver Award, which is designed to recognise excellent customer service.

Drivers Barry Polkey from Clifton and Paul Graves from Basford were assessed by a ‘mystery traveller’ between January and March of this year, and each achieved an impressive 83% score for customer service, driving standards and overall competence.

To qualify for the award, drivers needed to have 100% attendance, always turn up on time, have no live disciplinary awards or blameworthy accidents on file, and a clean driving licence. Barry and Paul were among

Driver organises depot visit for young enthusiast

Nine-year-old Sam Cockell has an enthusiasm for buses and Reading Buses driver Harry Singh encouraged Sam’s interest by arranging for him to visit the operator’s depot.

Sam, accompanied by mum Joanne and other members of the family, met Harry Singh and Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer James Freeman at the Great Knollys Street headquarters.

Mr. Freeman said: “We gave Sam a celebrity tour of the depot and allowed him to try out several drivers’ seats for size…he liked them all. We also made him a special presentation of an old

120 other drivers who met the criteria, and their win entitles them to be entered into the NCT Driver of the Year competition.

“We launched the Seasonal Driver Award initiative in 2010 to acknowledge the hard work, professionalism and commitment our driving team demonstrates every day, “ explains NCT Marketing Manager, Anthony Carver-Smith.

“Paul joined NCT from the motor trade in 2009 and Barry had been a postman before he started with us 2010, so they are both relatively new to bus driving. This makes their achievement all the more impressive and is a credit to both Paul and Barry, and our training team.”

The winners each receive £100 and the chance to win £1000 and an extra week’s holiday.

Jon Ellis ran his first half marathon for charity

Hastings driver runs half marathon Hastings-based Stagecoach driver Jon Ellis ran his first half marathon at the seaside town’s 28th annual event. Jon, 30 from Ore, Hastings, completed the route in 3:16:09 and raised over £300 thanks to sponsorship from friends and family for his local Rainbow Nursery.

Four of the company’s buses were used to provide the park and ride service for the hundreds of runners and spectators on the Sunday and a double deck bus was positioned at the start line to be used as a base for the race director and members of the Hastings Lion Club which organises the event.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to support this key event and congratulate Jon for his achievement,” said Stagecoach Operations Manager Rachel Geliamassi.

Stagecoach driver a victim of the “blame game”

Sam Cockell sits behind the wheel of a Reading bus at the depot Reading trolleybus model – similar to the type of trolleybus which once ran on the high-profile route 17. He greatly enjoyed the visit and also brought along a card and a present of Cadbury’s Heroes in a tin which was painted like a bus.”

Sam has subsequently written to Mr. Freeman: “Thank you for arranging for me to look round your depot. Love Sam. P.S. I love buses!

A bus driver involved in an accident in Devon has been given a conditional discharge after magistrates said he was a victim of the “blame game”.

Grzegorz Szatkowski, 27, was driving a Stagecoach bus in Exeter on December 24 when he knocked down a pedestrian, BBC News reported.

The driver, of Farm Hill, Exeter, admitted careless driving and was given a three-month conditional discharge and three points on his licence.

Exeter Magistrates’ Court was told the woman went to cross the road as Mr Szatkowski was turning left from a narrow street with cars parked on either side.

He only saw the victim at the last

second and braked hard – injuring two passengers on board.

The pedestrian spent two weeks in hospital after suffering a broken arm and having an elbow replaced.

Prosecutor David Barnes said the collision happened at “low speed” and witnesses said it was a silly place for her to cross the road.

The chairman of the magistrates, Richard Jacobs, said: “An old fashioned collision used to be called an accident. Someone has to get the blame and you picked up an element of the blame which is unfortunate.”

Read the full story at http:// www.bbc.co.uk/news/ukengland-devon-17463757

www.coachandbusweek.com

DriversAA.indd 45

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46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

COACH&BUSMARKET – the place to buy and sell

To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247 Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales

Dennis Pointer Dart Mk2 x 100 All spares available - includes engine, gearboxes, seats, etc.

Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com

Don’t forget to say that you saw it in

SHELTON MOTORS – RAMSEY, CAMBS

WANTED ALL TYPES OF BUSES AND COACHES FULLY LICENSED ELV SITE # WANTED FOR BREAKING AND EXPORT ORDERS # IMMEDIATE PAY AND COLLECTION # SINGLE OR FLEET PURCHASES Tel: 01487 813156 (9 until 5 Mon - Fri only) Mobile: 07831 349760 Email: sales@shelton-motors.co.uk

WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED

WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED

# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #

# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #

Volvo B12M VanHool

Manual, choice of two, 2002 & 2003, both with new MOT, low miles, owned from new, both 51 seaters, full exec with rear toilet and rear servery, selling due to fleet upgrade

£55,000 and £65,000

Contact Ian 01443 681995

COACH&BUSMARKET Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles?

Contact Jade Cassidy now for our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!

2004 (54) Neoplan Starliner Tri-Axle Corporate/Team Coach

32 leather seats around 8 tables, full rear servery with fridges, ice machine, hot water, microwave and airline style food warmers, 3 extra fridges throughout coach, airline style overhead lockers, 240v inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & SKY TV (2 screens), extra mini screens on a separate channel on both front tables, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box, spare seats.

£104,000 + VAT o.n.o.

For more details call Patrick or Murray 01787 477701/ 07730 671064

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk

553368-1034-Pembridge

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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS

New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £20,595 + VAT

OTHER MAKES

FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES

(11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995

(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat M/R 140PS with air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £17,995 (08) 2008 Ford Transit 3.5ton 15 seat 2.4tdi, 115ps, high back seats with three point belts, tacho £13,800 (53) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 td minibus, high back seats with three point belts, tacho, air-con, COIF/PSV £6,995 (52) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi, tacho, towbar, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £6,495

LDV MINIBUSES

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495

SOLD

(04) 2004 LDV Convoy 17 seat LWB Hi Roof, tacho, 85,000 miles, COIF/PSV £4,250 (03) 2003 LDV Convoy Maxi XLWB 17 seat mini-coach, 2.4 Tdi, front entry drop step, luggage racks, rear heating, wide aisle, rear row of seats removable, New PSV £6,495

OTHER MAKES

New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox, LEZ COMPLIANT From £23,500 + VAT (07) Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus, 2.2 diesel with three point seat belts, 28,000 miles, COIF/PSV £10,495

SOLD

(06) Peugeot Boxer 17 seat 3.5ton minibus 2.2 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, rear row of seats on tracking, 14,500 miles only £9,995

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(08) Renault Master LWB 3.5 ton, 2.5 tdi, six seats, fully tracked floor, inboard Ricon Clearway lift, one owner from new, 40,000 miles £16,750

(07) 2007 Renault Trafic LH29, 7 seats, tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 43,000 miles £8,995 (57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995 (54) 2005 Renault Master 13 seat wheelchair access minibus, inboard Ricon lift, fully tracked floor, rear heating, electric side step, 56,000 miles £8,995

New Renault Master 17 seat LM35/ 2.2di 125ps, six speed, satnav, tacho, fully tracked floor with removable seats £21,995

(03) 2003 Fiat Doblo SX 1.9 diesel, low floor, four seats plus one wheelchair, lightweight ramp, 45,000 miles £3,495

(09) 2009 Renault Master 16 seat minibus, tacho,high back seats with three point belts, 35,000km £15,650

Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £6,495

Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk

Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304

Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist

All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%

553180-1033-Ensign:Layout 1

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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 1997/8 VOLVO OLYMPIANS Seatbe exampleslted no available w

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Volvo engines, Euro 2, 78 seats, converted to single door, new COIF, tyres included, UK registered ready to work.

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.

1999/2000 T/V/X REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

Cummins / Allison, Wrights Cadet body, ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LEDʼs, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.

2000 DAF SB120

2004/5 SCANIA K114 AND 124’S

ZF automatics, Irizar PB bodies, 49 leather seats, toilets, air-con, £53,500.

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN

Slimline, Mercedes engines, 23 seats, long MOTʼs.

ZF automatic, 74 seats, dual door, CONVERTIBLE open topper, so can still be used in the Winter! One only.

2006 OPTARE SOLO’S

1995 M REG DENNIS DRAGONS

ZF automatic, Plaxton Premiere 350, air-con, 57 seats.

1998 DAF SB3000

Cummins/Voith gearboxes, Duple Metsec bodies, recent floors and 92 coach seats.

2001 DDA COMPLIANT DENNIS DARTS

Plaxton Pointer 2 dual door bodies, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ 2012 compliant, only £6,500 each plus tyres (£375)

2001 Y REG DART SLF’S

Cummins/Allison, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX200 bodies with either 30 seats and 2 doors or 34 seats converted to single door, ramps, DDA certified and compliant. 10.8m 37 seaters now available.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s

553180-1033-Ensign:Layout 1

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nbus ER SPECIALIST 1996 N REG DENNIS DART SLF

GREAT VALUE DENNIS DARTS!!!

Plaxton Pointer body, 40 seats, long MOT.

2001 Y REG DENNIS DART MPD’s

Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 29 seats, LEZ compliant post 2012 with traps, DDA compliant, long MOTʼs.

1998/9 R and T reg Dart SLFʼs with Plaxton or Alexander bodies, 35 seats, single door, long tests.

Hanover LEDʼs, East Lancs Myllenium body, 39 seats.

2003 MAN 14220

Euro 3, ZF automatics, 35 seats, East Lancs Myllenium bodies.

2003 MAN 11.2220’S

Euro 4, Wrights Gemini bodies, dual door, 68 seats.

Cummins Euro 3 ISB engines, Allison gearboxes, Caetano Nimbus bodies, 10.7m, 37 seats, full DDA.

£7000 just spend on recon engine, MCV Evolution body, 40 seats, DDA, Hanover LEDʼs.

2002 DENNIS DART SLF’S

1999/2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats or 70 when converted to single door.

1997/98 P/R/S REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander RL low height bodies, LWB, 87 seats.

2007 VOLVO B9TL’S

2007 MAN 14.220

Voith automatic, East Lancs body, 49 dual purpose seats just retrimmed, supplied with new MOT.

1995 N REG SCANIA L113

ZF automatic, SLF, Wrights body.

2000 X REG VOLVO B6

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com

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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk

2006 ADL ENVIRO 200 SLF 29 sts - choice of 2 £45,000 ea+ VAT

2004 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 seats. £34,000 + VAT

1995 MERCEDES 0416 WRIGHTBUS 47 seats. £4,950 + VAT

1996 VOLVO OLY ALEXANDER 78 seats. £9,750 + VAT

2003 MAN 18.280 SLF IKARUS 42 seats - £19,750 + VAT

1999 VOLVO B7 SLF ALEXANDER 60 seats. £18,500 + VAT

73 Capacity

Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN

58 Plate Volvo Sunsundegui B9R 49/53 seat coach, interior blue cloth with leather head rests, I Shift gearbox, 2 screens, colour light blue metallic.

57 Plate Volvo Alizee B12B Euro 4, T9 Alicron 12.15M, cloth seats with leather head rests, 2 screens, I Shift gearbox, colour blue.

No deposit finance lease available up to 5 years subject to underwriting

Close Asset Finance

For all enquiries please contact Jim Bentley 07786 986600 or Marie Duffy 01355 572366

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SDRC0ACHhelp

54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

“Assisting the Coaching Industry”

2 x 1990 Volvo B10M Manual Plaxton Paramount 3500 57 Seaters With Courier Seat, Long Test, Brand New Re-Trim & NEW Sprayed White £8,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April

COACHES & BUSES WANTED FOR AUCTION for our UK & Commonwealth buyers Our main interest is equipment available due to Retirement or Fleet Reorganisation.

All equipment would be marketed worldwide through our Special Auction Events Team.

1996 Dennis Javelin Manual Berkhof Excellence 2000 53 Seater With Courier Seat, Tested Till June, But Will Supply New Test & NEW Spray White £7,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April

D L O S

See our website history for people we have worked for.

For further information please call Malcolm Harrison on 01630 674326 or email malcolm@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS

2008 Mercedes 613D Oynx Manual, LEZ 4, Minicoach 24 Seats, AIR CON, Long MOT & London LEZ Euro 4 £38,000.00 + VAT

1995 Volvo B10M Auto Plaxton Premier 350 53 Seat Standard Exec, Level Floor, Mounted Toilet, NEW Retrim & Spray, Long MOT, Mint! £16,000.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April

READY FOR START OF SEASON Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 320 Automatics

T F E L 1 Y L N O

Brand New Converted 70 Seat Coaches, New Seats & Spray, Certified And Ready To Go... 10% discount until the end of April

www.SDRcoachhelp.com 24 Hrs 0844 576 3300 1 x 1993, £18,500.00 + VAT 1 x 1994, £22,500.00 + VAT

1 x 1995, £26,500.00 + VAT 2 x 1997, £29,500.00 + VAT

Hunnable Industrial Estate, Toppesfield Road, Gt Yeldham, Essex CO9 4HD

OFFERS INVITED

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5552431-1034-Heatons

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HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN 01942 864222 THE NORTH WEST’S PREMIER MINIBUS SALES, SUPPLYING NATIONWIDE FOR OVER 40 YEARS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

READY TO WORK

PSV’d 05 BMC PROBUS 850 Covered 81,000 miles, council owned from new, 35 highback reclining coach seats with 3 point belts, full air conditioning, luggage racks, blown air, music system, tv, fridge, aircraft style lockers, generous underfloor storage, Cummins engine, automatic Voith gearbox, choice of 2 excellent POA

57 FORD TRANSIT MWB, covered 64,000 miles, factory spec minibus, 8/11 passenger seats, twin SLDs, full electric pack, excellent value POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

LEZ

D L O S

PSV’d

09 RENAULT MASTER SWB, covered 16,000 miles, Ricon internal Clearway tailift, lots of Unwin tracking,SLD with cassette step, 6 highback passenger seats, good quality O&H conversion, totally showroom condition inside and out excellent value POA

READY TO WORK

54 MERCEDES VARIO 614 with 15 highback passenger seats, complete flat floor, powerdoor front entry, external PLS tailift, analogue tacho, fully colour coded, totally immaculate in every way. low miles, excellent value POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

PSV’d

PSV’d

COMPLIANT

51 MERCEDES SPRINTER UVG coachbuilt, 16 highback passenger seats, complete flat floor, Powerdoor front entry, low miles, totally immaculate, external PLS cassette tailift, LEZ compliant, 12 months PSV test, Triptronic transmission POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

09 FORD TRANSIT LWB 17 seat factory minibus, covered 66,000 miles, digital tacho, central locking, totally immaculate, 12 months PSV test POA

54 PLATE IVECO 50C13 IRIS BUS 16 highback passenger seats, 3 point belts, full air conditioning, panoramic tinted windows, front low step entry, one owner, looks excellent, excellent drive, excellent value, 12 months PSV test, ready to work POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

LEZ

03 MERCEDES VARIO 814 Coachbuilt with 24 highback seats or would up-seat to 24, low miles, complete flatfloor, powerdoor front entry, external PLS fully automatic tailift, totally immaculate and excellent value for money, choice of 2 POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

D L O S

COMPLIANT

56 IVECO coachbuilt with 14 highback coach seats, complete flat floor, external cassette tailift, Powerdoor front entry, saloon heater, sound system, lots of Unwin tracking, low miles, this must give excellent value POA

05/06 RENAULT MASTER MM33 covered 25,000 miles, Ricon fully automatic internal Clearway tailift, 6 high back passenger seats plus wheelchair spaces or would up seat, SLD with electric cassette step, totally showroom condition inside and out POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

06 MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI Plaxton Pronto coachbuilt, 15 highback seats, power door, front low step entry, air conditioning, external PLS cassette tailift, silver metallic, totally showroom condition, low miles POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

06 FIAT DUCATO SWB, 6 highback seats, Unwin tracking, Rolac ramp, covered 52,000 miles, SLD with cassette step, stunning silver metallic, showroom condition POA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

LEZ

PSV’d

COMPLIANT

02 MERCEDES VARIO 814 Mellor Coachcraft coachbuilt, covered 71,000 miles, one council owner, automatic transmission, 32 high back passenger seats all on Unwin tracking, 3 point belts, powerdoor front entry, external PLS cassette tailift, very very clean and original, PSV testedlow mileage, choice of 3 POA

54 MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI 16 highback passenger seats, Koch low floor service bus, wheelchair accessible, PSV tested, very original or can paint to your colour at additional cost, drives superb POA

56 MERCEDES VARIO 614 Mellor coachbuilt, 16 highback coach seats, 3 point belts, complete flat floor, lots of Unwin tracking, Powerdoor front entry, external cassette tailift, covered 80,000 miles, totally immaculate inside and out, excellent value POA

WERE DO YOU FIND THESE 07 MERCEDES VARIO 616 Mellor Coachcraft coachbuilt, 15 high back seats all on Unwin tracking, complete flat floor, Ricon fully automatic internal tailift, powerdoor front low step entry, a good quality bus, LEZ compliant, will come with 12 months PSV test, excellent value POA

Let us take the stress out of the purchase of your next minibus, leaving you to concentrate on running your business.

1, PSV tested. 2, Tacho fitted. 3, Finance options if required – 36, 48, 60 months low deposits, etc. Details on request. 4, Delivered to your premises. 5, Tail lift certificates.

Where can you find one of the largest stock of wheelchair accessible/conventional minibuses? Ready to work, combining this with over 50 years of experience in the industry. Just one friendly phone call to Wayne or Philip will simplify your job.

HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN

ALL PRICES PLUS VAT We guarantee quality vehicles, right prices, no pressure sales. Come and have a coffee while you browse at your leisure. Junction 23, M6 or 20 miles from Manchester/Liverpool airport.

52 Bickershaw Lane, Abram, Wigan, Lancashire WN2 5PL

Tel: 01942 864222

SEE ALL OUR STOCK ON OUR WEBSITE www.heatonsmotorco.co.uk

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H.W. PICKRELL MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

Gardiners Lane North • Crays Hill • Billericay • Essex • CM11 2XE Tel: 01268 521033 • Mobile: 07860 894331 • Fax: 01268 284951

Email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk - www.hwpickrell.co.uk

Finance available on all vehicles (subject to status) Written details on request.

WH E E LCH AIR ACCE S S IBL E MI NI BUS E S

06 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.5TD

2012 UN-REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, new conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 11 high back CT seats, m2 tested fully tracked floor, roof vent, new AMF tail lift.

Manual, PAS, LWB, PTS ambulance conversion, SLD, 6 rear high back seats, Ferno stretcher locks, Ricon stretcher lift , Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracking, exNHS, 36,100 miles only.

2005 05 REG FORD TRANSIT 2.5TD

Manual, PAS, LWB, 17 seat factory conversion, side loading door, side step, 15 rear high back seats, double passenger seat + driver, rear step, tacho fitted, only 29,237kms (18,167 miles), ex-charity.

2004 54 REG IVECO 50c13 IRIS BUS 2.8 TURBO DIESEL

06 REG RENAULT MASTER SM 33 2.2TD

53 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 416 CDI

06 REG RENAULT MASTER SL33 2.2TD

Manual, LWB, PAS, factory conversion, electric windows, cruise control, low front entry slam door, 16 high back seats with all age seat belts, full air con, exlocal authority, COIF, new PSV MOT, only 80,341 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 21253.441 miles.

4x4 ambulance, LWB, Wilker box body conversion, full air con/climate, side loading door, 3 high back seats, Falcon stretcher, PLS stretcher lift, very high spec, one owner ex Air Force, only 25,950 kms.

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 17,491 miles.

2008 57 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO LH28 2.0 T D

2004/05 54 REG M ERCEDES SPRINTER 416CDI AMBULANCE

2009 58 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD

54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

Manual gearbox, hi roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 30,280 miles only.

LWB, Macneillie van conversion, SLD, 2 rear high back seats, Ferno Falcon stretcher & locks, stretcher lift, blue light bars and siren, very high spec, low miles 65-85,000 miles only, choice of 8.

Manual, high roof, PAS, CD, MWB, O & H conversion, electric window & mirrors, side loading door, AVS side step, 10 high back seats + driver, sunroof, fully tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, only 17,050 miles.

Tiptronic gearbox, Euromotive PSC bus conversion, front entry slam door with low entry step, 16 x high back removable seats, Eberspacher, ex local authority, COIF'd, tacho fitted, only 66,780 kms.

07 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 313CDI 2.2

09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI

58 REG FORD TRANSIT TOURNEO CONNECT 1.8 HDI

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LH35 2.5TD

6 speed manual, a/c, Frank Guy crew van, side loading door, 8 x high back Cogent reclining removable seats, tracked floor, large storage area ideal airport shuttle bus, 34,500 miles only, choice of two.

Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, double passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, blue metallic silver, alloy wheels, 14,932 miles.

Manual gearbox, CD, electric windows & mirrors, A/C, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, single passenger seat front, cut out floor, air suspension, fold down ramp, high spec, 24,000 miles.

LWB, hi roof, multi purpose office/comms unit, PAS, SLD with AVS side step, awning, 3 x workstations, amber light, bars front and rear, overhead storage lockers, heating, generator, microwave, tv, only 1,500 miles.

2010 10 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.5TD

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD

2008 57 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD

06 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.2TD

Manual, LWB, O & H (NICU) ambulance conversion, 3 rear seats, all wipe clean, Ricon stretcher lift, a/c, Eberspacher, storage units, Unwin tracking, ex NHS, low miles 6,700 miles only (NICU - Neonatal Intensive Care Unit).

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, modified low floor, electric winch & fold out ramp, 15,491 miles.

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, new conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 14 high back seats, AMF m2 fully tracked floor, new Ricon tail lift, tacho fitted, only 62,794kms (39,020 miles).

Automatic gearbox, high roof, SCW conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 7 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 11,831 miles.

07 REG FORD TRANSIT 350 2.4TD

Long wheelbase, high roof, 6 seater crew van, PAS, SLD, rear partion for storage & tools in rear, Eberspacher heater, overhead storage, microwave, hot water box, wash facilties, 27,000 miles only.

56 REG IVECO DAILY 40c12 IRIS BUS 2.3 TURBO DIESEL

Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, side loading door, AVS electric step, 12 high back removable seats, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex-local charity, COIFʼd, tacho fitted, 47,827 kms only.

60 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, Advance conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 2 x w/chair, heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 2,060 miles only.

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58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | May 2, 2012

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

BUILDINGS

• Bus Workshops • Secure Storage

• Supplied any width,

any length • Building to BS5590 • Doors high enough for Double Deckers • Finance available Phone for further information

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime CHECKPOINTS

BUSESWANTED

CRAIG TILSLEY

ENGINES

Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527

Fax: 01782 791316

Moorfields Industrial Estate Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY

Suppliers of Reconditioned DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

SHELTON MOTORS RAMSEY, CAMBS LICENSED ELV CENTRE

ALL BUSES & COACHES WANTED Tel: 01487 813156 (9 - 5, Mon - Fri) Mobile: 07831 349760 Email: sales@shelton-motors.co.uk

WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED

WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED

# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #

# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #

TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/ DUSTITE

loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:

Tel: 01524 271200

www.checkpoint-safety.com Email: info@checkpoint-safety.com

r .FDIBOJDBM "TTJTUBODF r &MFDUSJDBM "TTJTUBODF r $PBDI CVJMEJOH "TTJTUBODF r .BOBHFSJBM "TTJTUBODF

Ray McAlle (General Manager) Mobile: 07530 387394 Office: 01793 613122 Fax: 01793 840514 Email: info@paulclarkservices.co.uk Web: www.paulclarkservices.co.uk

ENGINES

Commercial Garage Equipment

Crewe Engines Ltd MERCEDES ENGINE SPECIALISTS

WE ALSO RECONDITION ALL MAKES OF BUS & COACH ENGINES

Direct from the UK’s No.1 since 1975 Call now for a quote or more information

01270 526333

Federation of Engine Re-Manufacturers

www.creweengines.co.uk

VOLVO - CUMMINS - SCANIA MAN - DAF - IVECO FULL FITTING FACILITIES

Brake Testers

Inspection Pits

Commercial Lifts

Mobile Lifts

Tel: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk

INSURANCE

p59_CBW_1034

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May 2, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED

SPECIAL OFFERS

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

Specialists in Used Commercial Garage Equipment

TICKETING

Don’t forget to say that you saw it in

BWS 0117 953 0381 www.bwsequip.co.uk

email: bwsequip@hotmail.com

REGISTRATIONS G £750 22 HXE 22 TXA 80 HXE ALZ 303 AXZ 88 ECR 767 IIG 62 JUI 808 RXI 85

SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’

£350 £99 £99 £50 DKZ 303 HIG 5651 MNZ 1195 AXZ 5648 JBZ 484 HIG 5652 ONZ 1180 CXZ 4470 MKZ 686 IIG 7764 REZ 3369 CXZ 4471 NUI 636 IIG 7765 RUI 2117 DRZ 7321 PXI 494 JIG 1575 SEZ 8950 DRZ 7322 RBZ 868 JIG 1576 SUI 2171 IFZ 8428 SCZ 878 KIG 1902 SUI 2172 IFZ 8429 YXI 454 KIG 1903 TJZ 1116 JFZ 3260 YXI 585 MJZ 6749 TJZ 1119 JFZ 3261 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange

£50 JFZ 3262 JIG 9765 JIG 9766 KIG 1216 KIG 1217 RNZ 2174 RNZ 2175 TUI 5575 TUI 5576

Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ

SEATING

TRAINING ERGONOMIC SEATING SPECIALISTS

Full range of Static, Mechanical and Air Suspension seats available for Coaches, Service Buses, Vans and Trucks

Prices from £150+VAT (No carriage charges)

12 Murray Place, Righead Ind Est, Bellshill ML4 3LP Tel: 01698 845352 • Fax: 01698 844325 Email: TScottco@aol.com

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED

Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services?

Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!

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COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED TYRE EQUIPMENT

VEHICLE SPARES

Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

TW FULLY LICENSED END OF LIFE VEHICLE CENTRE TW REDUNDANT AND SCRAP VEHICLES TAKEN TW PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT SERVICE TW ALL REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR TW VARIOUS SPARES AVAILABLE TW CONTACT US FOR FULL AVAILABILITY

Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com

www.twigley.com

COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED

Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services?

New Van & Minibus Parts

Transit bodyshell

Leyland GB397,390

Master side doors

Sprinter 906 new model doors

Sprinter 616 axle

Sprinter LT old model doors

Mercedes drivers seat

Nissan 2.7 TD engine

Renault 1.9 CDI engine

Transit 17 seater

Transit Millenium doors

Transit Tourneo seats

Sharan Galaxy 1.9 CDI

ZF 16S-109

ZA Astronic 12-AS-1920-TD

Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!

www.cabmasters.com 01706 211 838

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Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

Sunday: Nip to Tesco at 1000hrs with my fiancée before heading to the UK Coach Rally, 15 minutes drive or so from our home. I don’t subject her to a day at the rally. Despite this, a number of friendly readers who’ve met Sarah kindly ask where she is. Recognising my ugly mug shot, readers compliment me on CBW, which is nice. Andrew joins me to help cover the event but says he’s also interested in seeing it for himself. I compliment Steve Telling on the revised arrangements for presenting the awards.

A pocket-sized Gemini? ...Yes, that’s exactly what our Gareth thought when he saw this First Manchester Wright Gemini-bodied Volvo B9TL bus. He caught it on camera from the roof-top car park of Manchester’s famous Piccadilly hotel, venue for the UK Coach Awards 2012, while grabbing some stock pics on the morning of Friday April 20. From this angle, the bus does indeed look almost pocket-sized. Don’t you agree? Turning to the bus itself, a quick Google search reveals fleet no.37403 (visible in the bottom left-hand corner), is registered ‘MX58DXP’ and was new to First Manchester in October 2008

More on Pistyll Rhaeadr…

Last week’s story and photos about Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall raised eye brows in some quarters, but hey, our Gareth is a firm believer in the idea there’s more to life than rivets on a bus…

However, it was also well received in some other quarters; a prime example is Richard Bamber from Cheshire-based UK Coach Awards-winning Anthony’s Travel, who writes: “As a result of your

Dilbert

Hitched on Megabus USA

Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall waterfall picture I may head there on Sunday. My wife Dawn was most impressed with your picture so wants to go there to take her own photos.”

The following story was posted on the Megabus USA Facebook page and caught our eye: “Congrats to love birds Avi and Nina who just got engaged onboard megabus.com. He’s from NY, she’s from Baltimore and they’ve used megabus.com over the past three years to keep their long distance relationship going.

How sweet!”

In the CBW office we couldn’t help but conclude it’s a new definition of ‘hitching’ a ride…

Monday: A particularly hectic press day.

With 10 pages which can’t be designed until today (coach awards & rally), our production gets hammered, so a late finish ensues. Zzzz...

Tuesday: A day off in lieu of sorts – I spend much of the afternoon on the phone.

Wednesday: Set my alarm for 0520hrs but cancel it three times. Rise half an hour later than intended but I don’t rush out on the road – better late then never. Spend an enjoyable day with Go North East for part 2 of the Go-Ahead indepth feature. Grab a bite to eat in a Newcastle city centre pub before hitting the road. I can’t help but chuckle thanks to the presence of the Geordie equivalent of Ely from ‘Last of the Summer Wine’. Arrive at my hotel in Cleckheaton around 2100hrs. Catch up with some of the sales team from Arriva Bus & Coach over a pint – I feel like I’m with a group of mates.

Thursday: Enjoy an enjoyable morning at Arriva Bus & Coach (see p20).

While the banter is alive as ever, being Bob’s McLeoad’s last day means it’s also poignant. Arrive back in the office late afternoon to find a mountain of emails.

Friday: A busy but positive day in the office. Andrew is on holiday. www.coachandbusweek.com

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RECRUITMENT

First Recordbreaking graduate scheme FirstGroup revealed on Friday its UK graduate scheme has attracted more than 800 applications this year – a record for the firm. John Evans, HR Director at FirstGroup, said: “The number of applicants has been overwhelming. 10% more graduates applied this year and compared to two years ago, we’ve attracted around 65% more candidates.

“We’ve invested in our graduate engagement strategy in the last year. A new website specifically tailored for graduates has complemented the launch of a social media campaign and an increased presence at universities throughout the UK. “I’m thrilled with the response rate

Bowles Elected Chair of the CPTNW

Gary Cheema is in year one of his FirstGroup’s graduate programme and in particular, with the quality of the candidates approaching First.

We are attracting students with tremendous pedigree and potential.”

Gary Cheema, 23 from Berkshire, is in year one of his two-year Finance Graduate Programme based at First’s Aberdeen headquarters. He said: “It’s not surprising First is attracting large volumes of students

– the scheme is fantastic. In the eight months I’ve been with First I’ve learned an incredible amount, and thanks to the excellent support of my colleagues I’ve grown in confidence and taken on more responsibilities.

“At the end of the two-year programme, I’m hoping I can continue my career with First.”

Chris Bowles MD of Stagecoach Manchester, has been elected Chairman of the Confederation of Passenger Transport’s (CPT) North Western Region.

In his new role, held for two years, Chris will help formulate policies and give consultation on public transport legislation, regulation, practices and standards.

Chris, who has 38 years’ industry experience, has served on the CPT Regional Committee since 2006.

After his election, Chris said: “It is a source of great pride to lead a region with such an active membership. CPTNW has many members with extensive experience and many inspirational qualities, which I will draw upon and combine with my own experience, to fulfil my role as chairman.”

Your First Choice for Recruitment

Coach & Bus Week’s well-established recruitment portfolio attracts candidates across sales, marketing and management, delivering not just quantity but quality candidates, providing exceptional value for money.

In addition to our unrivalled print-based product, at no extra cost recruitment adverts are also automatically placed online at www.coachandbusweek.com, where they remain on view until a position’s closing date.

Coach & Bus Week and www.coachandbusweek.com combine to create the ultimate recruitment solution, guaranteeing your vacancy is seen by every jobseeker that matters from sales agents to board level.

To get your vacancy seen by quality candidates, call Ian Gillis on 01733 293484 or email ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm

Gary Mason joins NCT Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has appointed Gary Mason as its new Engineering Director after the retirement of Barry Baxter.

His move to public transport came in 1992 when he joined West Midlands Travel as General Manager of the firm’s engineering service support activities, working with a fleet of over 1,700 buses.

Following a merger with National Express, Gary became the Group Technical/Fleet Manager for the bus division in 1999.

This was followed by a threeyear stint with Veolia Transport, where Gary was primarily in charge of the Birmingham operations, but also had involvement with all the other UK locations – including Nottingham.

In his new role with NCT, Gary will head up all aspects of engineering within the company –

Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484

ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk

from the maintenance, cleaning and refurbishment of its 330 vehicles, to ordering new buses. He’ll oversee the smooth running of NCT’s three garages, ensuring its DDAcompliant, mainly double-decker fleet is ready to provide the best possible service each day.

“Having now spent 20 years involved in all aspects of the bus and public transport business, I am extremely pleased to be joining such a high quality and respected organisation,” said Gary.

Senior Sales Business Development Manager The Company Mitcham Belle Coaches provide coach & minibus hire to London & the South-East.

For more information visit www.mitchambellecoaches.co.uk As part of ambitious growth plans Mitcham Belle is seeking a talented sales professional.

The Role Reporting to the MD, you will play a key role in bringing about a step change in how Mitcham Belle develops and grows its UK business. You will have responsibility for revenue growth and gross margin delivery across the UK business.

Key Responsibilities: • Develop a strong, well recognised and profitable coach hire solutions business in London and the South-East, providing coach hire services to UK based businesses, educational institutions, and the general public.

• Win new business and explore new markets within preset budgets • Build on and drive the value that existing and future customers get from the current business through excellent consumer centric market understanding, account penetration and smart use of customer analytics, complaint research and social networks And You? You have a proven solution sales background and love to be measured against what you have sold and the strength of your relationships. Although a coach hire or transport background would be ideal, we would consider individuals who can demonstrate an understanding of a solution or service sale. You are a confident and skilled communicator and negotiator and will be motivated by working in an entrepreneurial business where you will develop new skills and build responsibility.

Gary Mason replaces Barry Baxter as Engineering Director

How to apply To be part of a dynamic, growing business please send your CV, together with details of your current salary package to kevin.wilde@mitchambellecoaches.co.uk

WORKSHOP MANAGER Due to the imminent retirement of our current Engineering Director, a position has arisen for a suitably qualified Workshop Manager within our operating team.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the key roles will be: • Maintain and improve Company standards of engineering and vehicle maintenance within our coach, bus and midi-bus fleet • Motivate and manage current engineering staff, and recruit ment of new engineering staff • Ensure vehicles surpass current VOSA standards for test preparation and daily use • Ensure inspection, maintenance and engineering records are prepared to the highest standard using Workshop Manager software systems • Adhere to budgets prepared in conjunction with the Operations Manager • Ensure compliance of Health & Safety matters and environmental responsibilities This hands-on role would suit either an experienced professional looking for new challenges in a SME environment, or an experienced PCV mechanic looking to move into a management role.

If you are interested in the position, please send your CV to:

Mr K Wilde – Managing Director, Mitcham Belle Coaches, 223 Streatham Road, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 2AJ, or by e-mail to kevin.wilde@mitchambellecoaches.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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